Vishita
Cloth & craft

Lucknow needlework

Chikankari sarees and dress materials, seen stitch by stitch.

Chikankari is the embroidery tradition associated with Lucknow. A temporary design is first printed or traced on the cloth, the motif is worked with a repertoire of stitches, and the guide is washed away so the needlework remains.

Traditional white-on-white work is only one expression of Chikankari. Today the embroidery can appear on cotton, muslin, georgette, silk and other fabrics in many colours. The base cloth and density of work strongly affect comfort, transparency and occasion.

Shop Chikankari

How it is made

From first decision to finished cloth.

  1. 01

    The motif is placed

    A washable guide arranges flowers, foliage or geometric movement across the cloth.

  2. 02

    The needle builds the line

    The artisan follows the guide while controlling stitch length, tension and direction.

  3. 03

    Stitches create depth

    Flat, raised, knotted and shadow-like stitches make one colour appear in several tones and textures.

  4. 04

    The guide is washed away

    Washing and finishing remove temporary marks and reveal the clarity of the embroidery.

Before you choose

Look closely at the exact piece.

  • Secure, even stitches on both the face and reverse
  • A base fabric and lining plan appropriate to the transparency
  • Work density that feels comfortable for the intended wearing time

Choosing it

For warm weather or long wear, compare the base cloth and lining needs rather than assuming all Chikankari feels the same. Fine work can be light; dense embroidery, sequins or a heavier base may feel more substantial.

Care

Embroidery can catch on jewellery and rough surfaces. Store the piece clean and dry, avoid pulling loose threads, and follow the exact care instructions for its base fabric and embellishment.

Current collection

Chikankari at Vishita.

See every match
Dress Materials3-Piece Georgette ChikankariView piece Dress MaterialsChanderi Dot Kurti Chikankari DyebleView piece Dress MaterialsChikankari Cotton Jaal 2-PieceView piece Dress MaterialsChikankri Cotton 2-PieceView piece Dress MaterialsOraganza Chikankari 2-PieceView piece Ready-to-WearCotton Dobby Kurti ChikankariView piece Ready-to-WearDobby Cotton White ChikankariView piece Ready-to-WearMal Cotton Chikan Embroidery 3-PieceView piece Ready-to-WearModal White Kurti ChikankariView piece Ready-to-WearSilk 3 Step Chikankari FrockView piece

Clear answers

About Chikankari.

Is Chikankari printed or embroidered?

The finished work is embroidery. A temporary block-printed or traced guide may be used during making, but it is removed after stitching.

Why do some Chikankari pieces feel heavier?

Weight varies with the base fabric, stitch density and added embellishment. The craft name alone does not determine how light a piece will feel.

What should I check before buying a Chikankari saree?

Check the fibre, transparency, blouse-piece inclusion, measurements, stitch security and exact cleaning instructions for that saree.

Does Vishita sell Chikankari dress materials?

The live collection can include sarees, dress materials and ready-to-wear Chikankari pieces. Search results show what is currently listed and in stock.