In the paddy fields surrounding the city of Kolkata, is a small workshop dedicated to the art of kantha stitching. Part of a Fair Trade cooperative, the women who work here are able to practice traditional techniques and support their families. Above the workshop is a small school, where local girls are taught the techniques of stitching and tailoring. TOAST has been working with Sasha for over ten years to create garments, homewares and accessories.
Pouch with a handwoven checked front and handwoven ikat reverse, hand kantha-stitched to several inner layers of upcycled sari fabric. Lined with plain cotton and finished with a cotton zip pull and herringbone tab at the side.
Details
Hand wash. Do not dry clean. Back: 86% cotton, 14% polyester. Front: 100% cotton. Lining: 100% cotton.
Made in India.
22 x 15cm.
Delivery & Returns
Free standard delivery on full price orders over £125.
Standard Delivery: £3.00
Express Delivery: £5.00
Next Working Day Delivery: £7.00
Before 12pm Next Working Day Delivery: £13.00
Free returns (subject to our returns policy).
£3 returns charge on sale-only orders.
Please refer to our delivery & returns policies for more information.
Reviews
Kantha
The kantha cloths, typical of Bangladesh and West Bengal, are an ancient tradition of resourcefulness and fine stitchery. The word kantha itself derives from the Sanskrit for ‘rags’, a reminder of the humble materials from which each kantha is made.
Layers of old, discarded saris and dhotis form the kantha, held together through intricate rows of running stitch. Embroidered stitches unite the multiple layers of salvaged cotton to form an un-wadded quilt, and characterise the kantha with a pleasing regularity.
Cotton Care Guide
Cotton is a versatile, comfortable and breathable fabric and is easy to look after. At TOAST, we love cotton for its ability to take dye and retain bright colours and intricate prints.
Obtained from the fibres surrounding the soft seed pods of the cotton plant, cotton is a natural and biodegradable fibre that has been used since antiquity. The fibres are cleaned and spun into threads before being made into a variety of fabrics, from denim and corduroy to poplin and twills.
How to wash
Cotton can be washed at 30 degrees in the machine with similar colours. Try to wash your cotton less frequently to maintain the shape, colour, and quality of your garment.
How to dry & store
Reshape your garment whilst damp by holding the side seams together and shaking. Cotton is best dried flat or hanging to prevent the need for ironing. If an item requires ironing, then it is best to do so whilst slightly damp or using the steam setting.
Hang your cotton clothes away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.