Soof and Kharek Embroidery of Gujarat

Soof is an intricate embroidery practiced traditionally by Sodha Rajput in the Kachchh region of Gujarat. Geometric motifs are created by using small triangles. These motifs are made with satin stitch directly on the fabric without drawing. The artisan visualizes the design and creates it on the fabric by counting warp and weft yarns. This piece of textile created by hand work of the artisan is often mistaken with machine embroidery because of its neatness. Soof is also known as Sindhi embroidery. Traditionally shawls and veils were embroidered with silk floss yarn. Vibrant colors and use of mirror work gives an added appeal to it.

Kharek is another type of embroidery traditionally practiced by the Sodha community and later by the Harijans to adorn their kanjara/ tunic-like top and choli/ blouse. This form of art is influenced by Central Asia. The geometric patterns are created with precise counting of threads in warp and weft. Kharek embroidery is done with vibrant colors which fill the entire fabric incorporating mirrors in them. Black color is used to create the outline of the grid making the motifs to stand out. Traditionally, satin stitch was also used along with cross stitch.