As a member of Marcy’s Circle, I am happy to offer you first dibs on a new batch of exquisite VINTAGE KANTHA QUILTS that just arrived from India.
Spectacular one-of-a-kind artisan kantha quilts made from vintage saris are hand-stitched, reversible, and different on each side. Some are patched or embroidered - the colors and designs indicate their age, history, and the design sense of the maker. Soft and supple, they feel delicious; the fine overall stitching is appealing to the touch and creates a subtle texture. The colors mix in surprisingly beautiful ways, some bright, some soft. Some are pieced front and back, some are one fabric on the front, and some have a solid color on the reverse. Weight and size vary with each quilt.
Weights in this collection vary from 30 oz to 70 oz. Sizes range from 96" x 65" to 76" x 58”.
All possess a rare and deep beauty.
Use as a throw or blanket or as fabric for garments or accessories.
80-100 years old.
Summer weight - 2 layers.
Traditionally, old cotton saris, lungis and dhotis, which had turned incredibly soft through wear, were used to make kanthas. The stitch covers the entire cloth to provide strength.
Women in almost every household in rural villages would be kantha experts and spend whatever quiet time they had available - between looking after the house and children, tending to livestock, and during the long monsoon days - on stitching the pieces. It could take months or even years to complete one kantha. The stitching could be handed down through generations, with grandmother, mother, and daughter working on the same kantha.
Hand wash or machine wash cold separately, air dry, or dry gently.
