Kawandi Quilt

What is a Kawandi Quilt?

A Kawandi quilt is a unique form of hand-stitched quilting from the Siddi people of India, descendants of Africans brought to India centuries ago.

This quilting method is distinct because of its reverse approach. Instead of starting from the center and working outward, kawandi constructed from the edges inward.

How Kawandi Quilts Differ from Traditional Quilting:

Kawandi quilting involves sewing pre-cut fabric pieces together to create patterns, followed by a separate process of attaching the quilt layers. Kawandi, on the other hand, is much more organic.

• Edge-to-center stitching: In Kawandi quilts, you work from the outside edges and gradually sew inward, attaching fabric scraps as you go.
• No batting or sandwiching: There’s typically no extra padding (batting) used, unlike in traditional quilting, where batting is sandwiched between layers.
• Improvisational design: Rather than following a strict pattern, the quilt design evolves naturally, adding fabric pieces in a free-flowing style.

Tools & Materials Used in Kawandi Quilts

• Tools: Sharp sewing needles and scissors. A thimble is also useful to protect your fingers while hand-sewing.
• Materials: Basic cotton thread is sufficient for stitching. Siddi quilters often prefer thick, sturdy threads for durability.

How to Make a Kawandi Quilt: A Beginner’s Guide

Kawandi quilts are simple, colorful quilts made by hand. You start from the outside of the quilt and work your way inward, which is different from most quilt methods.

Here’s a quick tutorial for beginners:

• Start with a plain square of fabric as your base.
• Gather a mix of colorful fabric scraps.
• Begin by placing scraps along the outer edges of the base fabric.
• Sew them down with simple, straight stitches.
• Work your way inward, adding more scraps until the whole piece is covered.

How to Create Kawandi Quilt Borders

To make the borders, fold fabric scraps and sew them along the edges of the quilt. This keeps everything secure and also adds a final touch to your design.

You can use different colors or patterns for the border to make it stand out. Just like the rest of the quilt, the border is sewn by hand, which gives the quilt its homemade feel.

Kawandi vs. Kantha for Beginners

Both Kawandi and Kantha quilting are rich in tradition and great for beginners who enjoy hand stitching. Though they share similarities, they come from different cultures and offer unique approaches to quilting.

Quilting Style	Key Features
Kawandi Quilting	Origin: Siddi community, India African roots Stitching: edges to center Layers of fabric scraps No rulers or patterns Organic, flowing design Eco-friendly, upcycling Beginner-friendly
Kantha Quilting	Origin: Bengal, India and Bangladesh Running stitches in rows More structured but easy Old saris or cotton fabric Soft, quilted texture Repetitive motion Beginner-friendly

Kawandi Stitching and Thread Choice

Typically, cotton thread works best because it’s durable and blends well with fabric.

Sashiko thread, known for its strength and texture, is also a great option for detailed hand stitching.

For an added decorative touch, consider using embroidery floss in contrasting colors.

Kawandi Quilt Finishing Tips

Finishing a Kawandi quilt takes patience and attention to detail. Make sure the edges are neat—fold them under, and use small, even stitches to secure them.

You can add a decorative border using contrasting fabric to frame your work.

You can embellishments like tassels or small fabric appliqués as well.

When you’re done, gently iron your quilt to flatten out any wrinkles and show off your beautiful stitching.