Needlework: A common craft in Iran’s Baluchestan

Needlework (Souzan-Duzi in Persian) is a very common occupation pursued by women in some regions of Iran, especially Baluchestan.

The needlework in Baluchestan is called ‘Suchan-Duzi’ which is known as the most exquisite sample of handicrafts in Iran.

According to many documents, this embroidery dates back to the early years of the Islamic era, which was flourished during the Timurid and Safavid dynasty.

Needlework is the art of drawing images on fabrics by sewing delicate stitches using a needle and colorful yarns.

Suchan-Duzi or Suzan-Duzi is most commonly used to embellish women’s clothes. However, such works are also used as a decoration of handcuffs, trousers, bracelets, necklaces and scarves.

In addition to clothing, Baluch embroidery is applied to make covers of the holy Quran, Kohl holders, bags and cushions.

The most popular motif of Baluch needlework is geometric patterns. Triangles, squares, and diamonds are the main patterns and can be found in other handicrafts such as Persian pottery too.

Natural motifs, which include herbal and animal motifs like mountains, rivers, etc., are also very popular among needleworkers.

More Persian handicrafts:

Rashti-Duzi

Korgi-Bafi

Haft-Rang tiles

Varni-Bafi

Papier-mache and lacquer work

Kapu weaving of Khuzestan

Pan-Bafi

Kiseh-Bafi

Darayi-Bafi

Aba-Bafi

Khorjin-Bafi

Chigh-Bafi

Sermeh-Douzi

Ihrami weaving

Gereh Chini

Varsho-Sazi

Shawl-Bafi

South Khorasan carpets

Qalamzani

Boroujerd nickel silverware

Monjugh-Duzi

Pateh-Duzi

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