What is Kantha embroidery? How is it used in wholesale garments?

Kantha is a traditional embroidery style from West Bengal and Bangladesh — characterised by its simple running stitch used to create elaborate patterns, narrative scenes, and geometric motifs. The word "Kantha" means "rag" or "old cloth" — the technique originally repurposed worn saris and dhotis into quilts and coverlets.

Distinctive features:

• Running stitch — simple and consistent — used to fill entire design areas
• Vibrant coloured thread on white or off-white cotton base — the classic form
• Narrative motifs: birds, fish, trees, deities, geometric patterns
• GI-tagged product (Kantha stitch of West Bengal)

In wholesale garments:

• Kantha stitch sarees and dupattas — premium handloom segment
• Kantha work kurtis and jackets — growing in artisan and sustainable fashion segment
• Machine "Kantha look" prints — widely available in Surat wholesale at much lower prices

Price: Genuine Kantha stitch dupatta ₹400–₹2,000. Machine print "Kantha style" dupatta ₹80–₹250.