GOTA PATTI WORK
Gota Work is a type of metal embroidery originated in Rajasthan, India. The cities of Jaipur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Udaipur and Kota are the epicenter of uniquely styled Gota work. Elaborate patterns are created using applique technique with metals like gold, silver, copper etc. Gota work is extensively done on Dupattas and Ghagras. Outfits adorned with Gota Work are popularly worn at auspicious functions.
The making of Gota is a lengthy and time consuming process. The process starts with tying the base fabric to the four thick cords of the wooden frame, known as Khaat. A craftsman then begins with tracing the design on the fabric with the help of tracing paper and chalk powder paste. Based on the required design, the Gota fabric is cut and folded into various shapes. It is then back-stitched and hemmed on the fabric. The motifs used on Gota are inspired from the flora and fauna. Flowers, leaves, birds and animals are some of the popular motifs used in Gota.
The silver or gold pieces of ribbon are cut into fine pieces of string in order to form minute motifs such as flowers, leaves, birds, images and other geometric patterns. Gota work can be thin or thick, depending on one’s taste. Beads and special cut stones are also used in tandem with gota work in order to give the fabric a fine finish. Rounded off flowers and leaves are perhaps the most common form of motifs used in gota work when it comes to embroidery.
Outfits with Gota work should be hand-washed or machine washed in slow cycle so as to maintain the applique work.
