History of KANTHA

The Kantha technique is one of the oldest forms of embroidery in India, dating back to pre-Vedic times (before 1500 BC). It is a tradition listed as a World Heritage Site. It is a skill learned from childhood by women in rural West Bengal, Orissa, India, and Bangladesh, and has been practiced for generations.

Bengal Kantha embroideries are a craft based on the recycling of several layers of fabric (usually sarees and dothis) sewn together with intricate stitches. Layering and stitching extend the life of fabrics. A simple stitch proderie, meticulous know-how is then applied to transform what are essentially rags into textile riches, the fabrics are quilted and reembroidered to make a harmonious whole.

Kanthas are made to wrap the newborn, used as light duvets in cool weather, as blankets to protect objects. Exported to Europe via the Silk Road, they took the name Quilt.  Little by little, embroidery evolved and became more and more sophisticated, executed on cotton or silk.

Each piece is one of a kind. These textiles cannot be mass-produced. This craftsmanship is a clever mix of economy and aesthetics and the small irregularities in the seams are a reminder of the unique history of textiles.

Suzhni is a craft made by women from Bihar. As in the Kantha tradition, the soft cottons of used sarees and dhotis are usually recycled in new forms. Several layers are quilted together. Traditionally, the thread was taken from the edges of old clothes.

Today

Long abandoned with the arrival of synthetic textiles, it was in the second half of the twentieth century that this technique was brought up to date. Today, Kantha, worked mainly in the villages, weaves a social link between village women of different communities and faiths. It's a story of women and transmission.

Today, the work of the Kantha is taken up again and the traditions are passed on to the new generations, even if there are fewer candidates. In Indian Bengal it provides work for women in entire villages where they embroider on the time they have between their different family occupations. Ancestral techniques are taken up but with a detail that can no longer be equalled. The detail disappears in favor of a profitability that no longer allows embroiderers to spend a lot of time on a part.

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                          Old kantha New kantha

Inspiration for fashion and decoration

In recent years, in the fashion and decoration industry, Kantha has gained popularity due to its unique aesthetic and rich cultural heritage. We add an authentic and artisanal touch to the collections.

Consumers are increasingly attracted to products that tell a story and are ethically made. Kantha meets these criteria, offering not only unique and aesthetically appealing pieces, but also a tangible connection to history and tradition.

At STORIATIPIC, since the creation of the brand, we have been using these techniques on our scarves, our bags, our ready-to-wear. We combine traditions with current trends. We work hand in hand with craftsmen to enhance our products. 

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It's our trademark...

Find all our kantha products: here