Welcome To Nayab Collection, where tradition meets elegance.
About Us
We specialize in the timeless art of Lucknowi Chikankari, a centuries-old craft known for its delicate hand embroidery. Our artisans, with their expert craftsmanship, bring to life intricate patterns on fine fabrics, blending heritage with contemporary style. Each piece is thoughtfully handcrafted, ensuring that no two items are alike, offering you exclusive designs rooted in the rich culture of Lucknow.
Whether you are looking for traditional wear or a modern twist on classic embroidery, our collections embody the perfect balance of elegance and authenticity. We invite you to explore the world of Chikankari, where every stitch tells a story of dedication, skill, and passion.
Introduction to Chikankari and Its Heritage
Chikankari, a traditional form of embroidery, finds its origins in the Mughal era, a time when artistry and sophistication were inseparably linked. The intricate designs of Chikankari are believed to have been introduced by Mughal emperor Jahangir’s wife, Noor Jahan. This ancient craft, with its roots deeply embedded in Lucknow, has managed to captivate the hearts of many, evolving seamlessly from its humble beginnings into a cherished and revered art form.
The meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating Chikankari aims to achieve detailed and complex patterns, requiring both precision and patience. Typically, artisans employ various stitches, including backstitch, chain stitch, and hemstitch, rendering a tapestry of delicate and sophisticated designs. Each piece of embroidery is painstakingly hand-stitched, which speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of the craftsmen. This labor-intensive process not only highlights the effort behind each Chikankari garment but also preserves a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
What makes Chikankari an enduring element of contemporary fashion is its unique ability to combine elegance with tradition. These pure cotton kurtas, adorned with Chikankari, reflect not just a fashion statement but a story of cultural heritage and artistic legacy. Exuding a sense of timeless charm, Chikankari pieces seamlessly transition from casual to formal settings, making them a versatile addition to any modern wardrobe. As a result, Chikankari continues to charm connoisseurs of fashion with its blend of rich tradition and modern appeal.
Pure cotton kurtas serve as the perfect canvas for Chikankari owing to their natural texture and breathability. The soft, luxurious feel of cotton complements the intricate, airy patterns of the embroidery, creating a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Cotton’s ability to hold vibrant colors while remaining delicate enough to uphold the finesse of the embroidery makes it ideal for showcasing Chikankari’s exquisite detailing.
Process of making chikan embroidery
Chikankari embroidery is a delicate and intricate process that has been passed down through generations, particularly in Lucknow, India. Here’s a step-by-step outline of how Chikankari is traditionally made:
Design Creation
Sketching the Design: The process begins with the creation of a design, which is usually inspired by traditional motifs like flowers, leaves, or geometric patterns.
Block Printing: Once the design is finalized, wooden blocks with the motifs are used to print the design on the fabric using a washable dye. This serves as a guide for the embroiderers.
Fabric Selection
Fabric Choice: Traditionally, light, breathable fabrics like cotton, muslin, or silk are used for Chikankari. Today, chiffon, georgette, and organza are also popular choices.
Embroidery (Handwork)
Stitching Process: Skilled artisans (mostly women) use various hand stitches to embroider the printed design. There are over 32 types of stitches used in Chikankari, including:
Tepchi: A running stitch used as a base or for filling.
Bakhiya: Shadow work, where the stitches are done on the reverse side of the fabric.
Phanda: Knot-like stitches for flowers and motifs.
Jali: Net-like patterns made by pulling the threads apart.
Murri: A fine and delicate knot stitch used for intricate details.
Embroidery Tools: Only a needle and thread are required. The artisans work directly on the fabric using the block-printed pattern as a guide.
Washing and Finishing
Washing: Once the embroidery is complete, the fabric is soaked and washed to remove the block print marks and excess dye.
Finishing: After washing, the fabric is starched and ironed to give it a crisp and finished look. At this stage, any final touch-ups are made if necessary.
Final Product
The completed fabric is then tailored into garments or sold as yardage. The end product could be sarees, kurtas, dupattas, or other pieces of clothing or home décor items.
The entire process is labor-intensive, and because it is done by hand, each piece of Chikankari is unique. The quality of the work depends on the skill of the artisan, making traditional Chikankari a treasured art form.
Finishing: After washing, the fabric is starched and ironed to give it a crisp and finished look. At this stage, any final touch-ups are made if necessary.
Final Product
The completed fabric is then tailored into garments or sold as yardage. The end product could be sarees, kurtas, dupattas, or other pieces of clothing or home décor items.
The entire process is labor-intensive, and because it is done by hand, each piece of Chikankari is unique. The quality of the work depends on the skill of the artisan, making traditional Chikankari a treasured art form.
