Khosdozi: a delicate and original art from Iran
Khosdozi is one of the most delicate and original handicrafts of Iran, which is rooted in the rich history and culture of this land. This art is sewn using metallic threads, usually gold or silver, on dark colored fabrics such as black, blue or navy. Embroidery designs are usually geometric, floral or slime and are executed with great delicacy and precision.
The history of self-embroidery
The roots of embroidery go back to the Safavid era. At that time, this art was mostly used to decorate aristocratic clothes and luxury objects. With the passage of time, khusdozi reached other sections of the society and was used to decorate local clothes, tablecloths, pillowcases and other household items.
Tools and materials used in self-embroidery
Fine thread: golden or silver metal threads that are thin and shiny strands.
Self-embroidery needle: a special needle with a sharp and delicate tip for sewing metal threads.
Fabric: velvet, silk or linen fabrics with dark colors are usually used.
Scissors: for cutting threads and fabric.
Design: Embroidery designs are usually pre-designed and transferred onto the fabric using carbon or tracing paper.
Self-embroidery steps
Choosing the design: The desired design is selected according to the type of fabric and the final application.
Transferring the design to the fabric: The design is transferred to the fabric using carbon or tracing paper.
Sewing: Using a self-embroidery needle, the metal thread is sewn on the lines of the design and the design is completed.
Cleaning: After the sewing is finished, the extra threads are cut and the work is cleaned.
Applications of self-embroidery
In the past, embroidery was mostly used to decorate aristocratic clothes and luxury items. Even today, self-embroidery has various uses, including:
Decorating local clothes: Khosdozi is used to decorate local clothes in many regions of Iran, especially in the south of the country.
Decorating household items: tablecloths, pillowcases, cushions and other household items are decorated with embroidery.
Making handicrafts: bags, wallets, mirrors and candlesticks and other handicrafts are made using the embroidery technique.
Exquisite gifts: Khosdozi products are used as exquisite gifts and souvenirs.