Resham Embroidery: 4 Facts About These Fascinating Threads

By Anushka Batra

The craftsmanship of embroidering patterns on fabric is centuries old and evident in various countries across the globe. While some people prefer to have zardosi embroidery, some wish to have Resham embroidery on their sarees and suits.

Silk is one of the most delicate fabrics available in the world. Hence, silk or Resham embroidery is one of the most important and eminent parts of the fashion and textile industry.

This kind of embroidery is done with colourful silk threads that help in making intricate and elaborate floral, paisley and other decorative patterns. Resham thread was a part of Chinese art, but its use is now rampant all over the world, especially in India.

History & origin of Resham embroidery

The history of silk embroidery started with China and goes back over 2500 years. People in China gave this art form a life, name and social standing. It became one such craft that was cultured and endowed through the ages.

Initially, it was the Chinese who brought this embroidery style into our homes. Hence, the detailing in the embroidery reflects images based on standard features and stories of kings and queens of that era.

It was patronised by the Mughal and royal kings and was heavily adorned on their robes or long dresses. India became the second home for silk production, because of which silk embroidery became extremely popular and received worldwide acclaim as well.

Traditionally, Resham embroidery was done mainly by hand, but the advent of machines changed quite a few things in the production process.

Resham embroidery — what are its perks?

There is no denying the fact that silk is the most durable, most substantial yet the softest material. Therefore, its threads are far better than any other fabric. Stranded spun silk might seem to behave similarly to cotton, but in reality that’s not the case. Stranded spun silk is slightly softer in twist, spreads well and covers more than cotton.

Resham threads also reflect light differently; they have a glowy gleam that no other fibre can match. Moreover, there is more variety in silk thread when it comes to weight, twist, type and uses. Silk might be more expensive than other fabrics, but its look and feel make it worth it.

Variety & uses of Resham embroidery

South-East Asian countries are the prime consumers of silk embroidery. Garments that feature Resham work are worn explicitly in Japan, Korea, China, India and more. The embroidery is used in evening dresses and traditional outfits. Silk-embroidered accessories like shawls, scarves and ribbons are used worldwide.

However, in India, a lot of ethnic outfits are inspired and fabricated with Resham embroidery. Silk-embroidered patterns look amazing on materials like cotton, georgette, pashmina and other knit fabrics. All kinds of suits, salwar kameez, lehengas, sarees, anarkalis, dupattas and kurtas look great with this craftwork.

For a detailed look, you can opt for ethnic wear with several strands of Resham threads on both similar and contrasting fabric. This attire would give off a colourful, vibrant and alluring look. With changing times, silk embroidery is now used even for home-decor bits like quilts and pillowcases.

Maintenance of embroidered Resham

• All silk-embroidered garments should be washed with mild detergents.
• It’s preferable not to use chlorine bleach or optical brightening agents. The clothes should be washed in cold water.
• It’s essential to never leave any piece of Resham-embroidered clothing soaking in water or lying in a pile when wet.
• Avoid wringing out clothes or rubbing stained embroidery.
• If you want to iron the garment, make sure you iron the embroidered fabric on the reverse side. Apart from this, you can iron embroidery between two pieces of cloth.
• It is recommended not to wet embroidery before ironing or to use a steam iron.

Many parts of South-East Asian countries depend upon the Resham handicraft for their economy. The silk-embroidered garments, fabrics and textiles are exported all across the globe. They contribute positively to upcoming market trends and the fashion industry.

Hence, it’s not wrong to say that this art or craftsmanship has a significant global impact. If you wish to be a part of this impact, then start surfing YourLibaas, as it offers a wide range of ethnic outfits featuring Resham embroidery in all its glory.

About Anushka Batra

Anushka Batra is a recent graduate of Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University. She completed her undergraduate education in B.A (Hons) Journalism. She is currently working at ‘Newzera’, a platform committed to inform, engage, entertain and inspire with quality content.

With experience in writing for radio stations like 92.7 BIG FM and top portals, Anushka has helped companies address prospects and customers for a new generation of marketing.

Anushka is devoted to helping companies tell their unique stories — not just selling their products, but engaging their audience by delivering content that solves problems.

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