A uniquely prestigious applique embroidery amidst all the glitter and glam of Rajasthan, Gota Patti has a historical heritage. Travelling from Surat in Gujarat to Ajmer in Rajasthan, this work has now reached Jaipur. Over time, Gota Patti work has become the accessory of every royal garment. Traditionally done on dresses, dupattas, sarees, ghagras and even turbans, this work is not only popular in India but worldwide as well.
Origin and history
The famous Gota Patti work originated in Rajasthan. It was quite relevant in the Mughal period. This work was used to adorn almost everything from clothes to bed sheets to spreads. Used as a common form of embellishment, crafts persons from places like Ajmer, Bikaner, Jaipur and Udaipur should get all the credit for the beautiful embroideries.
The gota (or lace) used for the Gota Patti work is believed to have its roots in Lucknow. This work is characterized by the use of resham and zari threads. Crafted most commonly on fabrics like cotton and silk, these are woven with threads of various textures, colours and widths.
The making of the embroidery
The beautiful outcome of the Gota Patti embroidery is a very time consuming process. First, the fabric is tied to four thick cords of a wooden frame (also known as a Khaat). Afterwards, designs are traced out on the fabric using a tracing paper and chalk powder paste. Next, the Gota fabric is cut according to the requirements. The work is then hemmed and back-stitched on the fabric. The use of motifs in Gota work takes inspiration from the flora and fauna.
Variety and style
Besides giving a perfect ethnic look, Gota work is also very stylish and elegant. This lace work looks spectacular in everything from saree borders to cushion covers. Flora and fauna inspired motifs such as flowers, birds, leaves along with other geometric patterns take the look of the work up a notch.
Thread work
Initially, the gota or lace used to be woven out of gold or silver threads. With the advent of time, modern embroidering techniques lend more dynamicity to the garments with the use of multicolour ribbons.
Gota Patti work can usually be seen in garments and other weaves like:
- Salwar kurta
- Lehenga
- Tops
- Skirts
- Ghaghras
- Cholis
- Odhnis
- Sarees
- Turbans
- Torans
- Cushion covers
- Bed sheets
- Sofa throws
- Jooties
Expert craftsmanship is required for making pieces with Gota Patti work on them. At Kessa, all our artisans come from all over India. Top notch traditional hand embroidery, coupled with hard work and efforts from our craftsmen, is what distinguishes Gota Patti pieces in our collection from others. Pieces with this work are not very high on maintenance. They can either be hand washed or machine washed in a slow cycle in order to keep the applique work intact.
Kessa has a beautiful range of clothing with the Gota Patti work embroidered on it. From kurtas to sharara sets to lehengas, we have a piece carved in Gota Patti work for all kinds of occasions. Come have a look for yourself before you decide upon the piece of clothing that suits you the best!