Leather X Kalamkari Collection

beautifully combines centuries-old craftsmanship with a modern touch, That recreation of magic with Kalamkari, an ancient Indian art with a rich heritage is the magic!

History  

Kalamkari is an ancient textile art form that has a rich history spanning over 3,000 years. It finds mention in ancient Indian and Persian literature. The art flourished under the patronage of the Mughal rulers in India and later received patronage from the Golconda Sultanate in the Deccan region.

WHY KALAMKARI

Kalamkari is a Persian word that translates to "pen work", and for a long time now artisans have created a stunning fabric with natural dyes and painting techniques that are handmade. These are more than just lovely body accessories; they tell narratives through folklore, fairy tales, and even ordinary life, in the same way that colors can be unexpected.

The process of making Kalamkari involves several intricate steps:

Preparation of Fabric:

The process typically begins with preparing the fabric, usually cotton, by treating it with a mixture of cow dung, milk, and Myrobalan (a fruit rich in tannins). This treatment makes the fabric more receptive to dyes.

Drawing or Printing:

Artists either draw the design freehand using a pen-like tool or block print it onto the fabric using hand-carved wooden blocks. The designs can range from intricate patterns to elaborate mythological scenes.

Outlining:

Once the design is transferred onto the fabric, the outlines are carefully traced using a fine-tipped pen or brush. This creates a boundary for the colors and helps define the intricate details of the design.

Filling in Colors:

After outlining, the artists fill in the designs with natural dyes. These dyes are derived from various sources such as plants, minerals, and organic materials like indigo, pomegranate peel, madder root, myrobalan, and alum. Each color is applied meticulously to achieve the desired shades and tones.

Washing and Finishing:

Once the coloring process is complete, the fabric is washed to remove any excess dye and to fix the colors. Sometimes, additional treatments like bleaching or sun-drying may be involved to enhance the colors and textures of the fabric.

In modern fashion

Kalamkari has experienced resurgence, particularly in the realm of bohemian or boho-inspired style. The boho lifestyle embraces free-spiritedness, individuality, and a connection to nature, making Kalamkari's handmade and organic qualities a perfect fit.

Boho Chic Clothing:

Kalamkari-printed fabrics are often used in boho-chic clothing styles, such as flowy maxi dresses, tunics, skirts, and blouses. These garments feature vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and handcrafted details that evoke a sense of wanderlust and eclectic charm.

Accessories:

Kalamkari motifs and prints are also incorporated into accessories like scarves, bags, and shoes, adding a unique touch to bohemian ensembles. These accessories often serve as statement pieces, adding a pop of color and texture to an outfit.

Ethical and Sustainable Fashion:

With growing awareness about ethical and sustainable fashion practices, Kalamkari's use of natural dyes and traditional craftsmanship aligns well with the values of conscious consumers. Many individuals seeking eco-friendly and socially responsible clothing options are drawn to Kalamkari for its artisanal techniques and cultural significance.

Celebrity Endorsement:

Kalamkari has also gained popularity through endorsements by celebrities and influencers who embrace boho fashion. Their public appearances in Kalamkari outfits or accessories help popularize the art form and contribute to its modern revival.

From a contemporary perspective, it remains impressive due to its flawless design spanning centuries.Being present in almost every sphere of life  it is an indispensable part of the culture.

In light of this, when you observe Kalamkari next time, please take a moment to appreciate the artist and the stories that get hand-woven into its very fabric.
Many cultural aspects are inscribed on Indian textiles.