Input
- Materials
- Washed cotton fabrics, Kantha needles, embroidery threads (varying strand counts), scissors
- Time
- 4 hours
Activity
Today, the artisans at the stitching unit began crafting a new piece using selected and washed fabric pieces. During the process, questions arose regarding the ideal distance between stitches, thread thickness, and strand counts for Kantha work. To eliminate guesswork and establish a clear quality benchmark, the team decided to run a structured A/B testing approach across four different techniques.
Four artisans each took on a specific variation: one tested closely spaced stitches with thinner thread; another maintained small, uniform gaps using the full thread; a third tested three-strand thread layers for a bolder look; and a fourth variation was set up for full comparison. With the test panels partially completed, the team paused for the day and plans to finish them tomorrow. A side-by-side evaluation of neatness, stitch density, and visual finish will help finalize our standardized Kantha stitching protocol.
Output
- 3 New precision Kantha stitch pattern samples per artisan, updated portfolio files
Outcome
The team shifted from subjective trial-and-error to a systematic comparison methodology. By creating four controlled variations, the artisans gained hands-on experience evaluating how thread thickness and stitch spacing impact fabric drape and finish.
Learnings
Running comparative multi-technique trials before starting final production prevents wasted materials and establishes clear, consensus-based standards for stitch consistency.