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Design Resource
Athangudi Tiles - Karaikudi
Making of Decorative Floor Tiles
by
Prof. Bibhudutta Baral, B. Srikanth and Raghavendra Chari K. M.
Products
The products are mainly tiles, which are made in different sizes and shapes. The Athangudi tiles are used to decorate the floors of the houses to look more attractive. Geometrical and floral shapes/forms are the major designs and patterns used in Athangudi tiles. Some of the designs are (locally) known as Socate, Uttapo, Star, Kolimutakall, Vatathamary Ilango design, Papatikal (Kerala design), minalkoodi, Vavakamalam, khombabukal, Sashtikal, Valavumkamalae, Katachokata design.
The products are mostly marketed in Tamil Nadu as well also transported to neighboring States. Training is also given to the new artisans/learners for 6 months to 1 year to learn the making of Athangudi tiles. The vivid colors used in the products give the house traditional as well an elegant look. The skilled artisans experiment with new design with modern as well as contemporary style.
The cost of the products ranges according to the size, thickness and the design of the tiles. It is the traditional looks of Athangudi tiles in geometric and floral designs, dark, earthy hues and black and white collection for borders, and the center-spread of swans or birds, which lend/give a carpet-like feel on the floor.
