Handloom weaving is of high historic importance in India, with Mahatma Gandhi promoting it as a part of India’s independence movement. It is a symbol of self-sustainability & promotion of local trade. Raw cotton threads are dyed and reeled into small spools, which are creeled behind a loom. Artisans bring the work to life using wooden pit looms, weaving intricate patterns into the product. They do this by counting threads, not using knots, resulting in the same pattern on both sides of the weft. The patterns are made following four types of stitches: backstitch, horizontal, vertical or diagonal. That is why these beautiful woven products have been called “exquisite poetry in colorful fabrics.”

In the past, this traditional art form provided profitable employment, but now artisans struggle to compete with the modern textile industry. Job options are few and the growth of industrialization entices artisans of this region to move into cities to work in factories.

Our partner community of textile handloom weavers is located in north central India on the outskirts of large urban areas. This small group of about 15 men and women have low education levels and face increasing economic challenges.

Pl scroll below to check the products made by these artisans.