Jute Craft

The jute fibre is derived from the reed like jute plant. West Bengal, with plenty of rainfall and a humid climate, suits the growth of the jute plant. It is the second most popular natural plant fibre and is available in abundance in the sate.

Jute fibre is used in West Bengal to make bags, rugs, carpets, hangings, footwear, coasters and many other things. When the plant is ready for harvesting, it is cut very close to the ground and left on the ground for a day or two until the leaves fall off. This is followed by a process called retting when the the cut plant is dipped in water to separate the fibre. Once separated, the jute is dried and given various forms. The fibre is knit into threads. Sometimes the threads are woven to make rugs, cloth and other items. Very fine quality jute is also used today to make furnishing material and dresses.

Source: www.craftandartisans.com

Contributed by: Prarthana, CEE Ahmedabad

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Muslin Fabric

This gossamer light muslin fabric has found mention in the writings of many visitors to India, even as far back as the 3rd century B.C. A great deal of muslin was produced in and exported from Bengal. Dacca was the main region where cotton was cultivated due to the high humidity of the region, which prevented the delicate thread from breaking on contact with the air. The cotton spun was very white since the Brahmaputra and the Ganges Rivers have bleaching properties. The chikan workers in Bengal used this fine muslin for embroidery.

Stitches in Chikankari

Double-Star Earring, Peacock Feather's Eye, Sidhual, Makra, Mandarzi, Bulbulchashm, Tajmahal, Phooljali, Phanda, Dhoom, Gol, murri, Janjeera, Keel, Kangan, Bakhia, Dhania Patti, lambi Murri, Kapkapi, Karan Phool, Bijli, Ghaspatti, Rozan, Meharki, Kaj, Chameli, Chane ki Patti, Balda, Jora, Pachni, Tapchim Kauri, Hathkati and Daraj of various types.