BANDHANI

Bandhani, from the Hindi/Urdu word “Bandhana” meaning "to tie," is a traditional Indian tie-dye technique practiced mainly in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Characterized by dotted patterns with colored borders, the intricacy of the ties determines the textile's value. Originating in Kutch, Gujarat, it was once reserved for royalty and the wealthy. Bandhani is now internationally recognized, akin to Japan's shibori. Tie-dye is a resist dyeing method where fabric is tied and dyed to create patterns. A variation, clamp dyeing, uses wooden blocks to form geometric designs, popular with contemporary designers.