TREE OF LIFE

Only natural dyes are used in Kalamkari, in a process that involves 23 meticulous steps. From bleaching, softening and sun drying the fabric to preparing and mixing natural pigments, the entire procedure requires precision and sharp attention to detail. Bamboo slivers are used to outline the entire painting in black dye, and then a flat-tipped brush fills in the vegetable dyes one at a time. After each color application, the cloth is washed. The final colors are exquisite, earthy tones of reds, blues, greens, yellows and browns.