Patchwork - An Integral Craft of India

By Keshav Kaushik

India, the land of diverse cultures, of diverse customs, of diverse languages and habits, and of diverse arts and crafts, yet united together by a single bond, its cultural richness, its art and craft, known to the world since ages. Patchwork, a sibling of the rich handcraft and art of the Indian subcontinent.

Also known as piecing, patchwork involves joining together pieces of fabric into a larger design. Patches of various shapes and colors lead to the making of a larger design, usually based on repeat patterns. Patchwork, one of the primary construction techniques of quilting, is often combined with appliqué. Basic geometric shapes are usually used in the making of most of the patch work items which need precise joining so that it lies without puckers.

Patch work in India is mainly associated with the westernmost states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, though Punjab and Orissa also practices this craft. Various coloured and patterned fabrics of different shapes and sizes are together on a plain background. An important feature characterizing Indian patchwork is that the stitches of the patches are not hidden but are done with jazzy shades which get highlighted, adding a more artistic appeal.

Making its way to India from Europe and Arabia, patchwork in an important craft in the country now, creating a unique art making dramatic use of colour. Gujarati patchwork items are the most well known ones. Highly ornamented with motifs, the magical spell of patch work items lies in the contors of each individual. Glaring motifs of trees, birds and animals in bold colors can be seen in each patchwork item - shaped patches sewn unto cotton cloth.

Expressing the stark monotony of the engulfing deserts, the patchwork items of the westernmost states of Gujarat and Rajasthan reveal the imaginations and innovations of the craftsman. Bold and beautiful, created with warmth and artistry, patch work still remains the integral art of the western states.

From patchwork quilts and bedcovers to patchwork wall hangings , runners and cushion covers, the range of patchwork items is a great one. When used in the making of a quilt, the large colorful composite patchwork becomes the top of a three layered quilt, the middle layer being the batting and the bottom layer the backing. The patchwork quilts are tinged with warmth and color, an artistic appeal sprinkled all through. A patchwork quilt is a respite from the staid conventional ones.

Patch work bedcovers and patchwork bed spreads are a modern way to give a traditional touch. A karwachauth celebration with a patchwork bedcover becomes more celebrative. A patchwork bedcover would make any festival more celebrative, more colorful.

A newer trend is setting in of using patchwork in decorative items. Patch work wall hangings are a traditional way to add color to every living room. Mounted onto a plain staid background, a patchwork wall hanging looks gorgeous and fashionable.

Take a break from staid leather, black and brown use patchwork cushion covers, an easy way to earn compliments, and approvals for your designer outlook.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keshav_Kaushik

Indian Pottery Craft - A Vibrant Handicraft Tradition

By Rajneesh Dubey

Making pots was the earliest vocation of Indians. Many civilizations are named after the type of pottery found. They were made in various colors and material. The primary colors used were red, black, ochre and white. Similarly the designs used were also different and significant. On the basis of clay found in the region of manufacturing they had their own variations.

Pottery was first made by man for utilitarian purpose but in later course when savage mankind transformed into civilized one, this became one of the most sought after vocation. Invention of potter's wheel was a revolutionary development which provided the much needed boost to pottery making.

When the utilitarian purpose of pottery was fully explored, the artistic creativity deviated towards the decorative aspect. Pottery has been used as decorative item for a very long time. The design of the pottery and the impressions made on it reflects the view and disposition of the society of the time. Shape and color of a piece of pottery gives a visual message. This art is most sensual and elegant of all arts. In has to be handled very carefully to make it long lasting.

The glory and chic of the Indian pottery is not diminished at all even today. Different regions of India boast of making different but yet unique pieces of pottery. The same flower pot can be found in an amazing variety of shapes, sizes and designs depending upon the place of its creation.
The diverse nature if Indian handicrafts can be evidently seen in its pottery traditions. Every Indian state is special in its own traditions of pottery be it Bengal and terra cotta, Rajasthan and blue pottery, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and other Indian states and their traditions.

Rajneesh Dubey is Content Coordinator for http://www.india-crafts.com This is a website covering all kinds of art and craft forms of India. Here, you will come to know about jewelry, dresses, sculptures, religions, paintings and various other topics on India. You can see here the lists of the manufacturers, exporters and suppliers of an array of handicrafts too.
To know more about Indian pottery, please visit Pottery tradition of India