Gujarat is a land of embroidery and every tribal household in the Kutch district excel in this art of grandeur and finesse by the versatility in their creations. The Gujarati needlework is commonly known as Kutch Embroidery as each product that is created is a wonder by itself. The tribal community of the Kutch district has taken this signature tradition to a different level by their tenacity and meticulous detailing in art. Surrounded by a cluster of nomadic villages like Dhamdka, Bhujodi, Kera etc., the artisans of the Kutch district are involved in embroidery, tie-dye, block printing, bead work, metal work, wood carving, lacquer work, pottery, marquetry, quilting, and stone carving. Each of the embroidered creations humbly prove to be a wonder in a single piece.

Gujarat is rightly nicknamed as the ‘Manchester of the East’ due to the wide variety of textiles found in the region. The textiles present a mesmerising contrast of colours that are rich, elegant, and ethnic. They range from block printing to tie and dye techniques to Kalamkari and Ajrakh work. Mirror work and embroidered cholis, salwar kameez and ghagra made by the local artists are a significant identity of the colourfulness, aestheticism, and ethnicity of the people of Gujarat. The motifs used are usually based on geometrical patterns, animals and flowers. Textiles with zari and patola work include Chalakk, Kangari, Salama and Tiki and are done using silver threads, gold, and colourful threads. Zari is used for weaving, lacework, and embroidery on a variety of different textiles.

Bhuj pioneers in the unique art of applique designing, popularly known as Ari Bharat. Colourful thread work embellished with small-sized mirrors and decorated with tiny silver bells are meticulously crafted by hand. Each of the handcrafted designs is a wonder due to its aesthetic appeal. The appliques depict the Rajputana and Gujarati motifs that depict animals, birds, flowers, local customs as well as their everyday life.

Bandhani is one of the oldest methods of tie-dyeing a piece of fabric. The process is entirely done by hand and requires immense skill. The main colours used in this creative art of tie-dyeing are yellow, red, blue, green, and black, all of which are natural. Depending on the way the cloth is tied, the dyeing technique produces different patterns, like Chandrakala, Bavan Baug, Shikari, etc. Bandhani sarees, also known as ‘Bandhej’ are exclusive sarees that are popular all over the world. The fabric used is loosely woven silk called ‘georgette’ or cotton known as ‘malmal’. Bandhani dupattas or ‘odhnis’ are very popular among women folk due to their bright colours and unique designs. The artisans of Jamnagar, Bhuj and Mandvi have taken the art of Bandhani to a different level by their tenacity and creativity, making it one of the most popular handicraft industries of India. The colourful ripple-round designs gratifies the style and comfort statement of women.

The amazing ingenuity of Gujarat is seen in the extensive weaving to create dhurries, rugs and blankets. The gorgeous patterns and remarkable combination of colours dexterously woven by hand and foot pedals make the dhurries (namdas) of Gujarat a unique wonder in a household. Dhurries are made of multi-coloured threads, rags, and spools of cloth. For generations, Kutch women have used the leftover scraps of clothes to create the beautiful dhurries that are amazing examples of artwork. Bed Covers are also made of dye art, block prints, mirror work and thread work designs. Bed Covers with appliqué designs on them are also found in Bhuj. The Namda is a typical traditional floor spread and looks like that of a carpet. The embroidery is created in a woollen yarn using natural adhesive techniques. A non-woven felting is used to produce a layered compressed wool. The Namda rugs are also used as linens and home décor. It is in high demand in the cold countries where they work appropriately as insulators.