Sozni Embroidery

Sozni embroidery is a traditional form of hand embroidery that originated in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a type of needlework that uses fine silk thread to create delicate and intricate designs on fabrics such as shawls, dress materials and home furnishings. The embroidery is typically done using a small, hooked needle called a "sozni" and is characterized by its fine and detailed work. The designs used in Sozni embroidery are often inspired by nature and are a blend of Mughal and Kashmiri motifs. It is considered as an important craft of the region, and is also a source of income for many local artisans.

Sozni embroidery is different from other embroidery techniques in a few ways:

1. Needle: Sozni embroidery uses a small, hooked needle called a "sozni" which is different from the regular needle used in other forms of embroidery.

2. Thread: Sozni embroidery uses fine silk thread which gives a delicate and intricate look to the designs.

3. Style: The embroidery is done in a free-style manner, with the needle not passing through the fabric multiple times and the thread not being knotted. This makes it different from other embroidery techniques such as cross-stitch, where the needle passes through the fabric multiple times, and the thread is knotted.

4. Designs: The designs used in Sozni embroidery are often inspired by nature and are a blend of Mughal and Kashmiri motifs. These designs are unique and different from the designs used in other embroidery techniques.

5. Time-consuming: Due to the intricate designs and free-style manner of stitching, Sozni embroidery is considered time-consuming compared to other embroidery techniques.