Suzani means needlework and is synonymous with the stunningly beautiful embroideries of Central Asia, especially Uzbekistan. This old traditional textile art formed the central family activity of creating brilliant dowry items for their daughters. Hand woven fabric was done in panels, designs drawn on all the panels, embroidered by family members and then stitched together with the elaborate embroideries connecting panel by panel. These silk embroidered designs were and still are resplendent with large floral and medallion motifs, stylised pomegranate, and solar representations swirling and joining together to create glorious household textiles to fill their gloomy tents. Two very distinct stitches always in silk thread are used in Suzani textiles. There is the Basma or Bokhara couching stitch which is done using a tambour hook, which is similar to a crochet hook, and often as an outline for a motif chain stitch is used. The dyes were naturally organic, however today the use of manmade synthetic dyes is prevalent.

The variety of Suzani is extraordinary. From small prayer rugs, to be rolled up and packed for a nomadic life, to elaborate bed covers and tent hangings. Each piece is an individual expression of glorious colour, design, personality, industry and artistic skill.

From being visual feasts in a harsh landscape, Suzani now have found their way into homes far removed from their origins and have created a whole new desire by Uzbek woman to create traditional textiles for a modern world.