1. Bandhani

Bandhani is a tie-dye technique that involves tying small portions of fabric with thread and then dyeing it. It is a traditional textile art form that is popular in Rajasthan and Gujarat. The process creates intricate patterns and designs on the fabric.

Example: Bandhani sarees and Bandhani dupattas.

2. Block Printing

Block printing is a technique in which wooden blocks are carved with intricate designs and patterns. These blocks are then dipped in dye and stamped onto the fabric, creating beautiful printed motifs. This technique is prominent in the regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Example: Bagru print sarees and Ajrakh print fabrics.

3. Embroidery

Embroidery is a meticulous process of decorating fabric with needlework using various types of stitches and thread. India is well-known for its diverse forms of embroidery, such as Chikankari from Lucknow, Phulkari from Punjab, and Kantha from West Bengal.

Example: Chikankari kurtas and Phulkari dupattas.

4. Weaving

Weaving is the process of interlacing two sets of yarn, warp, and weft, to create a fabric. Indian weaving traditions vary across different regions, including Banarasi silk weaving in Uttar Pradesh, Kanjeevaram silk weaving in Tamil Nadu, and Handloom weaving in various states.

Example: Banarasi silk sarees and Kanjeevaram silk sarees.

5. Kalamkari

Kalamkari is a technique of hand-painting or block-printing on fabric using natural dyes. It is practiced primarily in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Intricate scenes from mythology or nature are depicted in this art form.

Example: Kalamkari sarees and Kalamkari dress materials.

6. Batik

Batik is a method of applying wax-resistant dye on fabric to create patterns. The fabric is first covered with melted wax in specific areas, and then dyed. The wax resists the dye, resulting in beautiful designs. This technique is popular in Gujarat and West Bengal.

Example: Batik printed dupattas and Batik painting fabrics.

7. Tie-Dye

Tie-dye is a technique of creating patterns on fabric by tying, folding, or crumpling it before dyeing. Various colors and dyes are used to create vibrant designs. Tie-dye can be found in different regions of India, with Bandhani being one of its subsets.

Example: Tie-dye sarees and Tie-dye t-shirts.

8. Zari and Zardozi

Zari and Zardozi are techniques of embellishing fabric by using metallic threads, beads, and sequins. Zari involves weaving gold or silver threads into the fabric, while Zardozi is the art of attaching intricate metalwork to the fabric. These techniques are extensively used in bridal wear and formal garments.

Example: Zari work sarees and Zardozi embroidered lehengas.