This is a traditional craft and has been practised in India for the last 300 to 400 years.
Chetipani is the simplest kind of crochet and is usually made by the beginners. The other kind is Athakupani or joint attachment, in which different kinds of flower designs are combined to form the pattern. The combinations are harmonious and require a lot of imagination and dexterity. The designs are inspired from floral, nosegay, almond, and date motifs. The colours used commonly are black and brown with white and ikat weaves. The products dominantly comprise items for household use: curtains, bedspreads, and furniture covers. Dress materials often have crochet pieces as borders. Large pieces of crochet are preferred in the export market. In Tamil Nadu a variety of exquisite cotton and silk lace is being made. Practitioners of this craft are also found in Pondicherry.
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