The Making of Chikankari: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Our Hand Embroidery Process

Introduction: The art of Chikankari is a testament to the skill and dedication of artisans who pour their heart and soul into every piece. At Libaas e Lucknow, we believe in honoring this craftsmanship by providing our customers with authentic and beautifully crafted Chikankari garments. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous process involved in creating these timeless pieces.

Designing the Pattern: The journey of a Chikankari garment begins with designing. Skilled designers draw intricate patterns on tracing paper. These designs often feature floral motifs, paisleys, and geometric shapes, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Lucknow.

Transferring the Design: Once the design is finalized, it is transferred onto the fabric using a process called ‘printing.’ The fabric is stretched on a wooden frame, and the design is imprinted using washable ink. This stage is crucial as it serves as the blueprint for the embroidery.

Embroidery: The embroidery process is where the magic happens. Artisans use a variety of stitches, each adding a unique texture and dimension to the fabric. Some of the commonly used stitches in Chikankari include:

• Tepchi (Running Stitch): Used for outlining motifs.
• Bakhiya (Shadow Work): Creates a shadow effect on the fabric.
• Phanda (Knot Stitch): Adds raised knots to the design.
• Jaali (Net Work): Creates a lace-like effect.

Washing and Finishing: After the embroidery is complete, the fabric undergoes a washing process to remove the ink. This step also helps soften the fabric and set the embroidery. The final stage involves finishing touches, such as trimming loose threads and ironing, to ensure the garment looks perfect.

Quality Control: At Libaas e Lucknow, we take quality seriously. Each piece undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure it meets our high standards. We check for consistency in the embroidery, fabric quality, and overall finish before it reaches our customers.

Conclusion: Creating a Chikankari garment is a labor of love, involving skill, patience, and attention to detail. At Libaas e Lucknow, we celebrate this craftsmanship by offering our customers exquisite Chikankari pieces that are a true reflection of the artisan’s artistry. Explore our collection and experience the beauty of hand-embroidered Chikankari.