Embroidery has traditionally enhanced a dress. A look at the various types of threadwork…

As far as the world of design is concerned, embroidery is the backbone of India and Pakistan. It has left an indelible imprint even on international fashion like Escada, Lingara and Ferra have their ensembles embroidered in India. Do we know enough about our own embroideries and how to use them efficiently? The thoughtful use of embroidery can enhance an ensemble, and take it from the mundane to the extraordinary. Some Indian embroidery that can do wonders for an outfit are: ( Click on the above visuals to go to Sareeworld.com)

Zardosi
Leaf-scroll worked in gold and silver thread on silk, satin, velvet and other rich fabrics. Zardosi is also combined with Dabka work and is originally from Lucknow.

Aabla
Mirror work which has its roots in Rajasthan and Kutch.
Aari
Embroidery done on a cot. Also known as khatla work aari originated in Barabanki.
Badla
Flat metallic wire, silver or gilt wire embroidery.
Butas and Butis
Motifs composed of floral forms fitted into paisley shapes derived from the Mughal era.
Lari
Fine quality gold thread embroidery found in Bareilly , Benaras ( Varanasi ), Lucknow and Agra. These days silver zari is equally popular.
Phool Patti Work
Applique work from Aligarh where usually organdi or other fabric cutouts in floral and leaf motifs are affixed on to a plain fabric sometimes in tandem with silver tilla embroidery.
Chikan Work
Originating from Lucknow this involves a technique of finding separated warp and weft threads for a textural effect.
Taipchi
Darn stitch on muslin.
Khatwa
Inverted satin stitch on muslin.
Murri or Phanda
Satin stitch knots.
Jaali
Network.
Phulkari
Flower motifs, geometric patterns, surface satin stitching using silk floss threads. Phulkari has its origin in Punjab.
Mokaish
Silver dots strewn all over is Mokaish work.
Kashida
Mix of textile embroidery and printing.
Kantha Work
Originally from Bangladesh, it resembles the running stitch.
Ek taar
Single thread embroidery used in tandem with crystals.
Resham
Fine silk thread-work.
Bead and Crystal Work
Resham work is teamed with beads, baggets, diamantes, rhinestones and Swarowski crystal.
Sitara Work
Sequins are embroidered into the fabric.