Details
A chain stitch silk Kashmiri carpet, also known as a crewel carpet, involves a distinct embroidery technique rather than traditional knotting on a loom. The process is intricate and requires skilled craftsmanship. Here’s an overview of how a chain stitch silk Kashmiri carpet is typically made:
1. Designing:
The process begins with the creation of a detailed design for the carpet. Skilled artisans draw intricate patterns on graph paper, determining the layout and motifs that will be embroidered onto the fabric.
2. Fabric Selection:
Instead of using a traditional woven foundation, chain stitch carpets are created on a base fabric, often cotton or linen. This fabric serves as the canvas for the intricate embroidery.
3. Stretching the Fabric:
The base fabric is stretched tightly on a frame or hoop, creating a stable surface for the chain stitching.
4. Transfer of Design:
The chosen design is transferred onto the stretched fabric. This can be done by tracing the design onto the fabric using a stencil or by directly drawing the design onto the fabric.
5. Chain Stitch Embroidery:
The artisan uses a hooked needle to create a chain stitch on the fabric. The needle is inserted from the back to the front, forming a loop on the surface. The next stitch starts within the loop of the previous one, creating a continuous chain-like pattern. This technique is repeated to fill in the entire design with vibrant silk threads.
6. Color Selection:
Silk threads in various colors are carefully chosen to match the design and provide a rich and vibrant appearance. The use of silk threads adds a luxurious and glossy finish to the carpet.
7. Detailing and Finishing:
The artisan pays attention to intricate detailing, ensuring that the chain stitches create a precise and elaborate pattern. Additional stitches, such as satin stitches or other embroidery techniques, may be used for finer details. Once the embroidery is complete, the carpet may undergo a stretching process to ensure uniformity.
8. Backing:
A backing fabric may be added to the reverse side of the embroidered fabric to provide support and stability to the carpet.
9. Final Inspection and Finishing Touches:
The completed chain stitch silk Kashmiri carpet undergoes a final inspection for quality and design standards. Any necessary adjustments or corrections are made. The carpet may also undergo additional finishing touches, such as adding fringes or other decorative elements.
10. Packaging:
Once the carpet passes the final inspection, it is carefully rolled and packaged for shipment.
Chain stitch silk Kashmiri carpets are highly valued for their intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and luxurious feel. The craftsmanship involved in creating these carpets showcases the artistic skills of Kashmiri artisans.
