Belt embroidery art (bow embroidery) in Iran: an ancient art with various uses
Belt embroidery or bow embroidery is one of the traditional and valuable handicrafts of Iran, in which, by using narrow and colored strips (belts) on fabric, leather or other materials, beautiful and diverse designs are created. This art has many uses in the past and today it is considered as a decorative and practical art.
History of belt embroidery
The roots of belt embroidery go back to ancient times. At that time, embroidered straps were used to decorate clothes, horse saddles and other items. With the passage of time and cultural changes, this art underwent many changes and became popular in different regions of Iran with its own characteristics.
Materials and tools used in belt embroidery
- Belt: The most important raw material in embroidered belts is narrow and colored belts made of leather, fabric, yarn or synthetic materials.
- Needle: The needle used to sew belts must be suitable for the thickness of the belt.
- Scissors: used to cut straps and fabric.
- Glue: In some cases, glue is used to fix the straps.
Belt embroidery designs
Belt embroidery designs are very diverse and range from simple geometric designs to complex and floral designs. These designs are usually inspired by the nature, architecture and culture of the region. Some of the most common belt embroidery designs are: - Geometric designs: includes squares, rhombuses, triangles and other geometric shapes.
- Plant designs: includes flowers, leaves and tree branches.
- Animal designs: includes birds, fish and other animals.
- Slime designs: There are complex and intertwined designs that are inspired by nature.
Belt embroidery applications - Dress decoration: Belt embroidery is used to decorate local dresses, formal dresses and children’s dresses.
- Bag and shoe decoration: Bags, shoes and other accessories are decorated using embroidered straps.
- Decoration of household items: tablecloths, pillowcases, curtains and other household items are decorated using embroidered straps.
- Making handicrafts: bags, shoes, panels and other handicrafts are produced using belt embroidery.