A ready reference for students, research scholars, and academicians in the field of clothing, textiles, and design A comprehensive text, written in a structured and coherent manner Includes over 1300 photographs of textiles, processes, designs and equipment Painted, Printed and Resist-dyed Textiles, Volume I of Traditional Indian Handcrafted Textiles, is a comprehensive text, put in a structured and coherent manner as a ready reference for all students, research scholars and academicians in the field of clothing, textiles and design. This book puts forth various traditional handpainted, printed and resist-dyed textiles, from different regions of India. It focuses on examining the history of textile traditions, their characteristic features, and analyzes the techniques of painting, printing and resist-dyeing; it includes documenting and understanding processes, colors, materials and motifs with their symbolism. Photographs have been provided to help the readers identify the textiles. Woven Textiles, Volume II of Traditional Indian Handcrafted Textiles, is a comprehensive text, put in a structured and understandable manner as a ready reference for all students, research scholars, and academicians in the field of clothing, textiles, and design. This book puts forth various traditional handwoven textiles from different regions of India. It focuses on examining the history of these textile traditions, their characteristic features, and analyzes the techniques of weaving and types of looms used. It includes documenting and understanding the weaving processes, colors, raw materials, and motifs used in the handwoven textiles. Photographs have been provided to help the readers identify the textiles.

"Published to accompany the exhibition The Fabric of India at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, from 3 October 2015 to 10 January 2016"--Title page verso.

- A book that maps down the journey of the tradition of textile and crafting - Locates the culture of craft in the pages of history - A guideline to the generations to explore the field Crafting a Future is a heartfelt celebration of artisans and their vocational skills. Each region in India has its own distinctive raw materials, craft techniques, textiles, motifs and color palettes, and through her well-researched narrative enriched with numerous stories, Archana Shah demonstrates the diversity and true value of handcrafted textile processes. She believes that handspun, handwoven fabrics made using indigenous fibers and natural materials for dyeing will help create a unique identity for handcrafted textiles, and suggests ways to repurpose the abundant artisanal talent available across the country to rejuvenate this sector. These tenets are woven throughout the book, which is broadly divided into three sections based on natural fibres: cotton from plants, silk from insects and wool from animals. This resonates with Gandhiji's concept of developing khadi and village industries to rejuvenate the rural economy, and stimulate development through a bottom-up approach. Beyond its beauty and heritage value, artisanal production is eco-friendly, has a negligible carbon footprint and fulfils most of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It has the potential for creating dignified employment opportunities for millions of people in their own regional location, so that they are not compelled by economic constraints to abandon their ancestral professions and migrate to urban slums to earn a meagre livelihood as unskilled laborers. In essence, the book focuses on artisans, their aspirations and fulfilment in their work. It also draws upon their traditional wisdom to address two of the most serious challenges that we face today: growing unemployment and climate change.

This vibrant volume showcases a stunning collection of Indian textiles from the V&A, and explores in depth their history, production techniques, and designs. Textiles have a long and distinguished history on the Indian subcontinent, from the dazzling woven silks worn by royalty to the simple block-printed patterns worn by the masses. Drawing from the Victoria and Albert Museum’s world-class collection, this beautiful and informative reference features breathtaking and varied textile designs, techniques, and colors. Each piece is examined in detail through close-up shots of the fabric and patterns, and demonstrates different weaving techniques, allowing readers to see precisely how the textile was made. Divided into three chapters by pattern style—“Floral,” “Figurative,” and “Geometric”—each chapter comprises an introduction to the style’s history along with its intended use. This authoritative volume overflows with distinctive colors and patterns to inspire and inform the reader about the history of Indian textiles and patterns, their intended use, and the methods by which they were made.

Traditional Indian textiles are an embodiment of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and centuries-old craftsmanship. They serve as a tapestry of colors, patterns, and techniques that reflect the rich diversity and intricate tapestry of India's cultural landscape. Each textile tells a story, weaving together the threads of history, tradition, and creativity that have shaped the vibrant tapestry of Indian textile traditions. This preface aims to delve into the captivating world of traditional Indian textiles, exploring their significance, beauty, and enduring legacy. It invites readers to embark on a journey through time, unraveling the captivating tales spun by skilled artisans and weavers across the length and breadth of India. India's textile heritage is a treasure trove of techniques and designs that have been nurtured for generations. From the delicate handwoven silk sarees of Varanasi to the intricate block prints of Rajasthan, from the vibrant tie-dye textiles of Gujarat to the ornate embroidery of Lucknow, each region boasts its own distinct textile tradition. These traditions not only bear witness to the artistic prowess of the artisans but also serve as a testament to the deep-rooted connection between textiles and Indian culture. Throughout history, Indian textiles have not only adorned the bodies of its people but have also played a pivotal role in religious rituals, social ceremonies, and daily life. The harmonious blend of colors, the meticulous craftsmanship, and the profound symbolism embedded in the textiles are a testament to the profound reverence for aesthetics and the interplay between tradition and innovation. In recent times, there has been a renewed appreciation for traditional Indian textiles, both within India and on the global stage. Designers, artists, and connoisseurs of textile arts are rediscovering the beauty and cultural significance of these textiles, incorporating them into contemporary fashion, interior design, and artistic creations. This revival not only brings these art forms into the limelight but also ensures the preservation of traditional skills and empowers the communities involved in their creation. Yet, as we celebrate the beauty and legacy of traditional Indian textiles, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges they face in a rapidly changing world. Globalization, modernization, and the relentless pursuit of mass production pose significant threats to the sustainability and preservation of these precious traditions. It is our collective responsibility to protect and promote these invaluable art forms, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate the legacy of traditional Indian textiles. This preface sets the stage for an immersive exploration of the world of traditional Indian textiles, delving into their historical significance, cultural context, craftsmanship, and the efforts being made to preserve and promote them. Through this journey, we hope to foster a deep appreciation for the intricacies and beauty of these textiles, inspiring a renewed commitment to their preservation and promotion. Join us on this captivating voyage through the realms of traditional Indian textiles, where heritage meets artistry, and the threads of the past intertwine with the present to create an enduring legacy of beauty, culture, and tradition.

A unique compendium of Indian crafts, this informative source-book maps the handicrafts of the subcontinent and captures the traditions that have enriched the day-to-day lives, and incomes, of Indian craftspeople.