Pakistani Chunri Textile Dyeing

Learn the art of traditional Chunri dyeing with textile artist Rehana Usman

In this workshop, we will make a simple but beautiful scarf or something similar using this historical textile dying method.

First up Rehana will introduce you to the history and different types of Chunri, with respect to techniques and different fabrics. After that the workshop will unfold in 3 easy steps. 

• 1- Tracing the basic pattern and fold the fabric. Referred to as Chapaee.
• 2 - Learning and practicing the basic knots and tying the fabric. Refered to as Bandhni.
• 3- Dye preparation and dyeing of the knotted fabric. Followed by fabric washing and finishing. Refer to as Rangaee and Dhulaee. 

By the end of the workshop, you will have been guided through the basic techniques of Chunri dyeing, including pattern design, knotting (tying), dyeing and finishing. Your Chunri scarf in chiffon or cotton will be ready to take home.

More about Chunri textile dyeing

The ancient technique of Chunri resist dyeing method originates from the Thar desert of Pakistan (Sindh and Punjab). Nomads sat in groups under the trees to tie intricate designs with incredible speed and skill while they watched over their grazing animals. The women from the Thar desert brought large amounts of pre-dyed Chunri fabrics to sell at city markets. They also brought pre-tied (knotted) white fabric for local dyers to dye and sell themselves. Despite never being formally trained, these women's intricate designs and timeless sense of colour continue to adorn fashionable clothing of Pakistan today.

There are some similiarities with Japanese shibori resist dying technique. However, with Chunri you can create many more intricate and elaborate patterns. Many knots are tied to make one piece. Cotton, linen, chiffon and silk are the favorite fabrics for hand-made Chunri.

About the workshop facilitator

Rehana Usman is a textile designer and visual artist from Pakistan. After completing a bachelor's degree in textile design at the National College of Arts, Pakistan, she worked in the local arts, textiles and fashion industry. Transitioning into the mainstream textile industry, she worked for several of Pakistan's largest textile companies, representing her employers at major international textile trade shows. Her passion of arts education drew her back to the university sector, and in her role of Associate Professor at the National College of Arts Pakistan she worked hard to bridge the gap between academia, and the arts, fashion and textile industries. Shortly after relocating to South Australia Rehana established STUDIO RAGS where she introduces people to Asian textile crafts (such as Indonesian Batik, Pakistani Chunri and Japanese Shibori) at a wide range of skills development workshops.

What you need to know

• Suitable for beginners 15 years and older (No previous embroidery skills required).
• We provide most of the materials - fabric, dye, etc.
• Please bring along thick thread (for knotting), a few safety pins, gloves and apron.
• Please wear closed shoes, as we will be working with boiling water.
• Please wear art friendly clothing, as we will be working with dyes that may stain clothes and hands.
• If your circumstances change and you can no longer attend this workshop, please email nvouis@ahc.sa.gov.au before 5pm, Thursday 5 June 2025. After this time and date we cannot issue refunds.
• Bring your own snacks. Tea and coffee provided.

This workshop is presented as part of Fabrik's Heritage Workshop Program, a series of skills development and cultural knowledge-sharing workshops hosted by makers who reflect the rich heritage of our diverse communities.

We are currently looking for makers who may wish to share their inherited or culturally diverse creative skills. Find out how to apply here.

Inclusion in the Fabrik mailing list

By registering for a Fabrik workshop or event your name and email address will be added to our contact list. This means from time to time you will receive Fabrik program updates by email. If you wish to opt out, please email the Public Programs Officer (nvouis@ahc.sa.gov.au) directly with Contact List Opt-Out in the subject heading and your full name in the message.

Images provided by the facilitating artist. Participant designs will vary.