what is kantha vintage cape?
Whole is greater than the sum of its parts" - Aristotle
Kantha is a centuries-old tradition of stitching old sarees, rags, used fabric. This movement of using old fabric was started by rural women from Bengal region in India and today has spread to different parts of India and Bangladesh..
This is known to be one of the oldest forms of embroidery originating from India, and can its origins can be traced back almost 1500 BC. How cool, that the concept of thrifting started a long time ago.
Kantha comprises of the simplest stitch in the language of embroidery – the running stitch. It is the way in which this stitch is used, in different arrangements, that forms the complex vocabulary of kantha." - Sasha Association
For making our capes we have used around five to seven fabric layers (mostly sarees) and the women artisan stitch them together with the running stitch which would cover the entire cloth to provide strength, depth and quilting effect.
Women in rural villages in India are mostly experts in kantha techniques, and spend whatever time they have - between looking after the house and children, taking care of livestock to make Kantha sheets. The beauty of this is that this could be handed down through generations - from mother to daughter, or even from grandmother to grand daughter.
Why is it sustainable and eco-friendly?
- Reversible and Versatile - It's super versatile - it's reversible and can be styled in countless ways..
- Circular - It is a 100% circular products. Old is new.
- A story of hope - It has stories of women from different parts of India woven together with love, compassion and courage.
- Community upliftment – Kanthas are like memories of makers, givers, wearers.
We thrilled to add this beautiful technique to our collection. Stay tuned for more products using this 100% upcycled fabric.