Gota work is also known as Lappe ka kaam and this is a reputed form of metal embroidery of western India, especially Rajasthan. The embroiderers of Jaipur, Ajmer, Bikaner, Udaipur and Kota are renowned for their uniquely styled gota work. Gota work are worn at auspicious functions. It is generally done on dupattas, turban edges and ghagras, including sarees and salwar kurtas. Gota form of embroidery is very vibrant and looks lively on colours such as pinks, reds and greens which are associated with festive occasions.
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| Gota Work |
Gota embroidey work is similar to applique, where woven gold cloth or metal is placed onto other fabric to create different surface textures. It is basically a form of fabric ornamentation. Gota lacing is extremely popular and odhni and turban edges of Rajasthan are often worked with it. Many printed or embroidered ghaghras, salwar kurtas, sarees are also trimmed with gota work.
Gota Embroidery Process
Essentially, gota is a band of gold or silver ribbon that varies with width, woven in a satin weave. A metal yarn that is made of beaten gold or silver forms the weft and silk or cotton is used in the warp. Gota work is worked on fabric with the appliqué technique. With a slight hemming or simple running stitch, stylish designs flow from the weaver's fingers on to the garment.
Originally real gold and silver metals were used to embroider but were eventually replaced by copper coated with silver as the genuine way of making it was very expensive. Now a days there are even more inexpensive options available. The copper has been replaced by polyester film which is further metalized and coated to suit requirements. This is known as Plastic Gota and is highly durable as it has a good resistance to moisture and does not tarnish as opposed to metal based Gota.
Gota Embroidery Popular Designs
The popular design elements used in this embroidery process are like flowers, leaves, stylized mango motifs and heart shapes. Checkerboard patterns are also quite a favorite in the region of Rajasthan. Animal figures, like the elephant, bird figures like parrot, peacock are some of the popular motifs used in Gota work. As a variation, floral designs are cut from gota and embroidered on to the cloth itself. The designs can be made more elaborate and rich like the enameled jewellery by filling some sections of the pattern with colored satin. Men and women of all communities wear garments of Gota, as it is auspicious and indispensable during ceremonial and religious occasions.
Gota Work Design Gallery
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| Designer Green Red Saree with heavy Gota embroidery |
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| lehanga choli with gota works |
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| salwar kameez with gota work |
