Ghalamkari (painted textile)

Here’s an abstract of the process. First, they choose silk or cotton cloth as these materials can absorb colours better than wool. They used to dip them in Zayandeh Rud River for 5 days, but as nowadays there’s lack of water in the river, they put the cloth in some pools. So, the cloths’ naps will be removed fully. After drying them under the sun, it’s time to boil them in water and pomegranate peels. So the white cloth turns into creamy colour. At this step, they’re ready to be designed. They dip stamps in colours and press them on the cloth very strongly, each stamp and layout is related to a special colour. To complete this, the artists also paint on cloth with brushes too. After drying, they take the cloth to the river again, wash them and boil them. Finally, they’re ready to use. This cloth is used as table covers, pillowcases, bed sheets, scarves and dresses.

A ghalamkar cloth is gorgeous and fantastic which shows a traditional art from old Persia. You can discover a country’s custom by its handicrafts, so this can be as an exquisite souvenir to take from Iran.