Kashida: The Oldest Embroidery From India

Kashida, also known as Kasida, is one of the oldest forms of embroidery that originated in Jammu and Kashmir. Kashida embroidery is created by using thick colored threads as well as beads to create different patterns.

Created with a type of a chain stitch, this embroidery is used on warmer fabrics such as silk, cotton, and wool and on garments as well as home decor items such as rugs, cushion covers, and bedspreads. More often than not, the fabric that is used is usually white or cream colored while the threads can be as colorful as the designer desires them to be. Thus, when it comes to

Thus, when it comes to being easily identifiable, kashida embroidery designs are one of the most distinctive styles of embroidery to come out of India. In terms of cultural relevance, this style of embroidery is considered to be one of the leading cottage industries in Kashmir.

When it comes to kashida work, there is more than one type of embroidery that can be carried out to create different looks. One of the most popular styles is the Sozni embroidery. This embroidery is created so skillfully that the patterns and kashida embroidery motifs can appear on both sides of the garment in varying shades of color.

This makes it perfect for garments such as shawls that can be worn with either side showing. Many women prefer reversible garments over regular ones because this gives them a higher scope when it comes to creating different looks and styles. The Aari embroidery, also known as the hook embroidery, incorporates concentric circles when creating floral patterns.

Paper mache embroidery is another famous style wherein the satin stitch is used in order to create an interesting visual effect. The patterns or motifs created in this style are usually outlined with black threads. The look that is created on the garments resembles stained glass work that can be seen on buildings.

When wondering how to do kashida embroidery, it is important to note that there are various terms that refer to the different usages of the embroidery itself, no matter what kind of style of the embroidery is being used. For instance, Kashir-Jaal refers to instances where there is an extremely fine network of embroidery that is used. This is mostly used on the sleeves as well as the neckline of the garments. Jaama refers to an extremely dense form of embroidery that can be seen on the entire body of the garment or fabric. Jaal, on the other hand, refers to this type of embroidery when it uses an abundance of vines or creepers in the overall design.

This is mostly used on the sleeves as well as the neckline of the garments. Jaama refers to an extremely dense form of embroidery that can be seen on the entire body of the garment or fabric. Jaal, on the other hand, refers to this type of embroidery when it uses an abundance of vines or creepers in the overall design.

Kashida Embroidery Motifs

 Most kashida motifs that are used to create this form of embroidery include images inspired by nature such as vines, birds, leaves and flowers and this is one of the defining aspects of this form of embroidery.

Style Tips

When it comes to wearing kashida designs, no matter what garment is being worn, it is important to compliment the design on the whole because the embroidery itself is so visually striking and eye-catching. Therefore, accessories should blend in well with the embroidery instead of striving to stand out because that can make the entire ensemble’s components clash with one another and create an extremely strange and visually loud look that may not look all that great.

When it comes to jewelry, beaded jewelry or even glass beaded jewelry is a great idea because these can complement the embroidery and also stand out on their own, creating an interesting pairing. An interesting shawl with this type of embroidery can be paired with a chunky beaded necklace that comes in similar colors used in the embroidery itself.

This makes the ensemble come together as a cohesive unit. A kashida shawl can be paired with a general indo-western outfit when it is moderately cold such as a tunic with leggings. Flip flops or ankle length boots (depending on the weather) can also be worn with these garments.

Similarly, with a kashida saree, it is important to note that the fall of the saree, as well as the pallu, are one of the most important components of this elegant outfit. Therefore, when it comes to accessorizing this garment, these components should be highlighted the most. Wearing high heeled shoes such as platform shoes is a great idea because it makes the garment look more elegant and the woman look taller when this is worn. Another thing to note is that binds look great with kashida sarees.