Sustainable Process

The kantha stitch is a simple running stitch that serves both utilitarian and decorative purposes. In its most basic form, it holds multiple layers of fabric together. When used decoratively, it can overlap, meander, and fill shapes with intricate designs. Originating in West Bengal, the kantha stitch is a culturally significant art form in India, with roots tracing back to ancient times.

At Anchal, we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality kantha stitching on the market. Our meticulous stitching is both thoughtful and precise, using luxurious embroidery thread to create the softest plush finish. We push the boundaries of contemporary kantha techniques by incorporating bold graphic motifs paired with a refined color palette, invoking a sense of casual sophistication.

Patchwork involves sewing together small pieces of fabric to create a larger design. In India, patchwork has a rich history deeply intertwined with the country's textile traditions. Originally a practical technique to repurpose worn fabrics, it evolved into an artistic craft featuring bold colors, geometric patterns, and detailed embroidery, reflecting India's diverse cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship.

Anchal enhances these traditional methods with modern aesthetics, resulting in products that are both beautiful and meaningful. By using patchwork, Anchal not only showcases the artistry of the craft but also promotes sustainability by using organic cotton and repurposing fabric remnants into high-quality items.

Block printing is a remarkable traditional craft where intricate designs are carved into wooden blocks and used to apply ink or dye onto fabric.

At Anchal, this art form and color mixing are performed by a women led team, an extraordinary accomplishment in a field traditionally dominated by men in India. This empowers women artisans to break barriers and thrive in a male-dominated industry. Our designs blend traditional motifs with simple geometric patterns, creating a balanced aesthetic that honors cultural heritage while offering contemporary appeal.

Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric or other materials using a needle to apply thread. This craft involves various stitches to create detailed designs, patterns, and imagery on textiles. Anchal artisans, known for their expertise in this field, specialize in a running kantha stitch to create intricate and elaborate designs.

To enhance their work, these artisans often incorporate other traditional stitching techniques such as cross-stitch, backstitch, and chain stitch. By combining these different methods, simple fabric transforms into a work of art with added texture, depth, and complexity.

We proudly source vintage cotton and silk saris that we then upcycle into a variety of one-of-a-kind textile pieces. This practice helps minimize the environmental impact of textile production by reducing fabric waste and conserving resources. It also preserves cultural heritage by keeping traditional patterns and prints in use through kantha quilting.

All new fabric Anchal sources is GOTS certified organic cotton. This sustainable farming technique reduces water consumption, supports soil health and is grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. By avoiding toxic chemicals, organic cotton promotes safer working conditions and ensures healthier end products. Additionally, its use helps minimize the carbon footprint of textile production, contributing to a more environmentally friendly and ethical fashion industry.

We use non-toxic dyes, free from harmful chemicals like AZO compounds, to ensure environmental sustainability and consumer safety. This practice not only reduces the ecological footprint of textile production by minimizing water pollution but protects consumers from potential allergic reactions, skin sensitivities, or other prolonged health issues associated with conventional dyes.

We prioritize minimal waste in our product design, utilizing fabric scraps from our production to create new, useful items, effectively upcycling hundreds of pounds of fabric. Embracing zero waste principles, Anchal not only reduces landfill waste but also conserves resources and promotes sustainable consumption practices in the textile industry.