Traditional allure

by Lakmal Welabada

'Susini Salu' , a display of enchanting creative designs made of handlooms and raw cloth with the patch point applique method will be on the ramp at the BMICH on April 7. This tantalising event will be presented by 'Chan's Xcella', the school of Home Science Technology, Wattala.

First Lady Mrs.Shiranthi Rajapaksa will grace the occasion as the chief guest where nearly a hundred novel creations made with local materials will be exhibited. "Patch point applique is a unique technique we are using for our designs by utilising only a pair of scissors, fabric glue and a sewing machine. It looks like a painting but is done with 'patches of cloth'.

Our second aim is to popularise hand embroidery which is dying due to the fame acquired by machine embroidery," says Chandani Rajapakse of Chan's Xcella. "The Patch point applique method is a time consuming technique. But the advantage is that there won't be duplicates of the same design. It's all exquisite. Many ladies love these dresses because of the uniqueness in the designs," she explains.

Chandani further says that the traditional Sri Lankan 'Liya Wela, Path Ru Rata' which we find in the old arts and crafts are the designs she uses for her creative work. "Hence it has the local illustrious touch that gives an exquisite traditional appeal.

Unlike the Indian sarees and dresses in which we can find the same design on different quality of materials, ours is elegant and distinctive. In fact we have been doing bridals for many brides now. Unlike buying an Indian saree which has many duplicators our locally made sarees are comparatively cheaper," she explains.

Many argue and grumble about the rough crushy quality of the raw cloth which keep the dresses made of raw materials away from many wardrobes. But 'Chan's Xcella' knows the technique of softening the raw cloth.

So, even one can sleep with her saree or the dress on, without sinking in the nightmare of 'taking it off and re-ironing' before proceeding out to meet her guests. "It's durable, and the design is long lasting. We guarantee this," she says.

Chandani who has experience of twenty years in the field has started her school five years ago. A vast number of students who have passed out from 'Chan's Xcella' today run self employment businesses in hand designing all over the island. 'Chan's Xcella' is good news for all ladies who wish to boost traditional crafts.

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