CRAFT TECHNIQUE: Kutch Embroidery (Paako)+ Indigo
PAAKO literally means solid or permanent. The name refers to a very tight chain-stitch based style that is practiced by various ethnic communities found mainly in Banni, a savanna between Kutch (north Gujarat, India) and the salt desert that stretches beyond. Motifs are primarily floral and are sketched on the fabric in mud using needles.
INDIGO is a highly revered dye among the craftsmen. They believe that a cow that drinks the solution becomes stronger and that if they eat with Indigo-stained hands, there won’t be any problems with the food or digestion. They say that Indigo has the power to turn anything natural. Using Indigo dyed fabric is thereby considered auspicious.
KALA RAKSHA is a grassroots social enterprise committed to documenting and promoting existing traditions of art and craft of Kutch region in north Gujarat, India. The trust maintains a collection of heirloom textiles that functions as a resource base for artisans to study and create exquisite contemporary work.
MANO ETNA TRAVEL STORY
