Adaptation of traditional Phulkari embroidery on clothing and knowledge assessment of trainees

Abstract

Ever since humans started dressing, embroidery has been one of the oldest methods of decorating textiles. The history of embroidery as an art form dates all the way back to the Iron Age. When used as a technique for adorning apparels, embroidered patterns emerged as the product of laborious efforts and attention to details. While the stitches utilised in Indian embroidery may originate from many areas of the world, they have been adapted with little modifications in various regions of our nation. The purpose of the present study was to transform traditional Phulkari embroidery designs onto kurtis. For this purpose, Phulkari embroidered motifs were gathered from marketplaces in Hisar and Patiala and classified into three groups: geometric, floral, and animal. Stylized designs for kurtis were then created using certain themes, and each design was then divided into two. Using Coral Draw, a total of thirty designs were created after that. Out of which five best-ranked designs were chosen. For every design, three positions were created. The top five positions of each chosen design were then embroidered in Phulkari embroidery to create kurtas. In the end, five kurtis were created. The most positive assessment of the produced designs, positions, sizes, shapes, and colour combinations was sought from experts. A training for the same was organised and after the trainees had received fifteen days of instruction, their knowledge was evaluated. This study aims to provide guidance for a novice designer to create items with the same appearance as traditional embroidery techniques using quicker methods. It will provide women entrepreneurs with new opportunities to produce in-demand, low-cost items.