Kolhapuri
Chappals
 |
| http://www.kolhapurichappal.co.in/ |
Origin
Kolhapur,
Maharashtra
Uniqueness
These
chappals make peculiar sound- kar..kar..kar- while walking to attract others.
This sound repels animals while walking in forests. This is done by placing a
particular type of seed in the two layers of the sole to make sound. The seed
is obtained from the “Vinchu” tree.
Types
There are
broadly three types of the chappals on the basis of the weight
Regular
These have
regular weight
Paper
Kapsi
These are
feather light chappals
Jada
These are
thicker version of the chappals.
Technique
and Limitations
1. Natural
Tan is used.
2. The
entire process takes about 45 days.
3. The
sides are cut when the leather is still semi wet. Once the sides dry out, they
shrink resulting in smaller sizes and fits.
4. The
layers of the leather in the sole are attached using a unique mud from nearby
river. Due to these layers sometimes separate causing discomfort.
5. the Stiff base sometimes turns soggy in
water.
6. The two
sides of the toe are stitched one above the other and then pushed between the
sole. Sometimes they produce discomfort.
7. Sizing
is an issue, as the artisans use fingers for sizing.
8. The top
and bottom sole patterns are stitched around the edges of the heel. Once the
edges get frayed, the heels begin to fall off.
Wearing-in of the Kolhapuri Chappals is always an issue. Here are some of the guidelines. These also include the care and preservation of these articles. (Adapted from this source)
Wearing-in of the Kolhapuri Chappals is always an issue. Here are some of the guidelines. These also include the care and preservation of these articles. (Adapted from this source)
1. If the kolhapuri chapal is too tight, dip the chappal in a tap water for two seconds and remove it. This will make the leather soft and the chappal takes the shape of your foot.
2. If the chappal is stiff, apply oil with the help of cotton to soften it.
3. It is best to use in winter and summer seasons. (Do not use in water or rainy season).
Note: This is my first post on footwear. I could not resist as these are so much tied with the overall looks of the Indian ethnic wear. I intend to write more in the future.
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