Kawandi

I’m excited to share something very special with you — Kawandi, a vibrant hand-sewn quilting tradition brought to India by the Siddi community of African descent. Kawandi is not just a technique; it is a rhythmic, meditative way of building cloth from small pieces, stitched patiently from the outside in, layer by layer, until a living textile emerges.

Unlike many quilting traditions that begin with precise cutting and planning, Kawandi embraces intuition. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to construct a Kawandi quilt from the foundation outward, layering scraps directly onto a base cloth and securing them with simple running stitches. You’ll discover how to work without rigid patterns, how to balance color and composition organically, and how to let the design evolve as your hands move. The process is bold, forgiving, and deeply satisfying — a wonderful way to build confidence in hand stitching while slowing down and reconnecting with the tactile joy of making.

Historically, Kawandi was created from worn garments and leftover fabrics, transforming the everyday into something both useful and beautiful. These quilts carry stories of resourcefulness, resilience, and creativity across generations. As we explore this tradition together, you’ll gain not only practical skills in hand quilting and textile construction, but also an appreciation for the cultural roots and storytelling embedded in each stitch.

By the end of our time together, you’ll leave with a finished or well-started Kawandi piece, a clear understanding of the technique, and the confidence to continue stitching at home. Most of all, you’ll experience the calm, communal rhythm that makes Kawandi such a meaningful practice to share.

I would love to invite you to join me in bringing this tradition to life through a Kawandi sewing workshop. If you’re interested in collaborating to set up a Kawandi workshop — or would like to host one in your space — I would be delighted to connect and plan something together.

Just get in touch on tanya@butlerandgrace.co