Kantha Quilts Brooklyn

Kantha Quilts: What is It and How is it Unique

Bengal, India is home to the hand-stitched Kantha quilts, which use recycled fabric and are characterized by a unique running stitch embroidery. They are a traditional craft that is occasionally put together using several layers of sari borders and other old garments, which are secured in place with simple flowing stitches that are done by hand. The surface created by Kantha Quilts Brooklyn at Sparrow is rough and slightly wavy. The original kantha were double-faced, meaning that both sides had the identical design.

What is a Kantha Quilt?

Kantha, which translates to "patched cloth," has two meanings: the craft and stitch itself (a small, straight running stitch specifically in Bengali embroidery) and the custom of creating these distinctive, colorless quilted blankets (which makes something beneficial and alluring out of wasted and ignored items).

Here's a more in-depth glimpse:

Origin and History: Kantha quilting has its origin in rural Bengal, India, and dates back centuries. What was once a functional means to recycle old materials evolved into an exquisite and entrancing form of art.

Craft and Stitching: Kantha quilts are created by layering several layers of fabric, which may be scraps or retired clothing, and then binding them together using a plain running stitch. The stitches are typically executed using thread cut from old sari borders.

Design and Appearance: The multiple rows and layers of running stitches give kantha quilts a distinctive textured and slightly rumpled look. The early kantha were double-faced, with the design being identical on both sides.

Materials: Traditional kantha quilts use old and discarded materials and fabrics, so they are a sustainable craft and a type of upcycling.

Edge Stitching: This is where a kantha of inferior quality, created at a lower cost, will show through.  With a kantha stitch all the way to the edge, a well-made kantha should have a straight edge that prevents any deterioration or internal cloth from showing through.

Color/Fading: If the colors in a kantha quilt are faded or very pastel, it's possible that the fabric has been washed more often or is older; the fibers may degrade more quickly than those in other textiles.  Since things are uncommon, think of this as charm and originality.  You will (should) primarily find authentic kantha blankets with these colors and vibrancies since Bengali women, who originally wore these saris, enjoy them.

Uses: Kantha quilts were originally made for functional reasons such as warmth and insulation, but they have since become decorative items and heirloom pieces.

Cultural Significance: Kantha quilting is a cultural heritage in Bengal, and the quilts tend to carry personal and family history.

Conclusion

In a way, Bengali artisans' inventiveness and resourcefulness are reflected in kantha quilts, which transformed discarded materials into beautiful and useful artwork. Kantha Quilts Brooklyn from Sparrow are hand-stitched and are so distinctive, colorful, multipurpose, full of narrative, and well-made. We offer a distinctive personal experience along with creative, well-designed products. We firmly believe you won't find another kantha like them. Our kantha are meticulously woven throughout!