Introduction:
Kasuthi is a traditional form of counted thread embroidery done in the state of Karnataka India. Its very intricate involving as many as 5000 stitches made by hand. Traditionally this kind of work is done on dresses like silk sarees, ravike, kurta etc.

History:
It is believed to be stated in chalukya period. The name is derived from the words Kai means hand and suit means cotton. This was mostly done by women folks. This embroidery features folk design influenced by Rangoli patterns. In olden days kasuthi were expected to be a part of bridal wear of which one saree is made of black silk with kasuthi embroidery which is called chandrakali saree.
This art is one of the heritage of Karnataka.


About kasuthi embroidery in brief :
Kasuthi work involves lot of patience as they have very intricate patterns like gopura, chariot, palanquin, lamps, Rangoli, flora, fauna and geometrical shapes. This work involves counting of each thread on the cloth.The patterns are stitched without using knots to ensure that both sides of the cloth look alike. The pattern is marked first on the cloth with pencil or charcoal and then proper needles are threads are selected. It is very colourful when it is done involving lot of bright and contrast colours.
This art involves lot of hard work and concentration.

Types:
It is basically classified into four types:
1.Ganti
2.Margi
3. Neyge
4.Menthe.

Ganti is double running stitch used for making vertical, horizontal and diagonal lines.
Murgi is zig zag stitch.
Neyge is running stitch.
Menthe is a cross stitch.

Blackwork in brief:
The stitches are used for counted thread blackwork are double running or holbein stitch back stitch and sometimes stem stitch. It originated in Europe and is called the sister cousin of kasuthi.
Historically there are three styles.
Geometrical patterns and floral designs which are mostly done by hobby stitchers.
Another style involves making large shapes of fruits or flower patterns with stem stitch and are filled with geometric counted designs.
The other style involves the outlined pattern are shaded with random stitches called seed stitches
It is mostly done in black colour and is similar to the Indian kasuthi embroidery.