India has a long, rich history of textile design that includes printed fabrics, embroideries, brocades, and quilts and tapestries. Although styles and fabrics vary by region, Indian textile art encompasses complex embroideries and appliqués; richly dyed cottons and silks, sometimes with metallic threads woven in; and a tremendous variety of recurring motifs including flowers, birds, and geometric shapes. These textiles are used for clothing (most notably saris), wall hangings, pillow covers, and bed clothes.
Below, you’ll find more detailed information on the history and styles of Indian textile art, including pictures, glossaries, regional differences and influences, and descriptions of techniques.
Embroidery Arts & Crafts of India : Article providing information about the many the styles found in India.
The Art of Block Printing : India has been renowned for its printed and dyed cotton cloth since the 12th century.
Textile Culture of India – Discusses weaving, embroidery, and surfacing techniques. Includes pictures.
Textiles (Arts and Crafts of India) – Overview of textiles across India
The Soul of a Sari – About saris; dying, embellishing, and draping.
Cotton fabrics of India: Maheswari, Jamdani, Sambalpuri, Venkatagiri, Paithani, and Tanda
Arts and Crafts of India – Overview of various Indian art forms, including a section on textiles and fabric.
The Tradition of Textiles in India discusses the history and types of Indian textiles, as well as regional influences.
Indian Textiles – From a past exhibit on Indian textile art. Discusses history, production, and aesthetics.
Patterns and Prints of India – Discusses Indian textile traditions and regional differences.
