JOIN USThe popularity of handmade or handicraft items has grown tremendously over the years. While some people love making these as a hobby, there are others who have turned their passion into a business venture. Handmade products are in demand now as they are rare to find and more unique than the mass produced products in the market. People have begun to appreciate the effort and time that one takes to make any kind of product.
Although there was a time when people were mesmerised with the mall culture and big brands, now it seems like they are going back to the roots. Hence, handicrafts have garnered more recognition and are here to stay.
Nivedha Charles, the founder of Pigtails and Ponys, makes hair accessories using discarded raw materials. She says, “Handmade products are unique and different. People want to own something which defines their personality. They are looking for something fresh and original. This is where handmade items come into the scene. We make customised and personalised items which will help people make their own statement.”
These crafts have also gained popularity due to the advent of technology. E-commerce has given rise to a number of ventures like ‘Rainbow Bunting’, ‘A Sunny Disposition’ and ‘Arttree’ which have made buying and selling easy and accessible. And also exhibitions like ‘Sunday Soul Sante’ and ‘Kitsch Mandi’ have provided a number of opportunities for creative people to exhibit their works.
But has this affected rural artists whose livelihood are completely dependent on craft? Asha Rao from ‘Sunday Soul Sante’ says, “We have provided a platform for all kinds of artists, be it rural or urban. It’s up to the people to see what they like. But one thing that the ‘sante’ has been successful in doing is ‘cross-pollination’. People from varied backgrounds meet under one roof and this has helped both urban and rural artists to meet, interact and take their venture forward. An exhibition is a synergy of rural and urban artists and should help both equally.”
Is it easy to compete in the market? Diva Ganeriwal from Kitsch Mandi says, “It is very difficult to compete in the market where one can get whatever they want at any point of time. Besides, making these products is a time-consuming affair and hence, these are rarer to find. These products also have a niche market.”
Many homemakers and youngsters are taking to this too. Nivedha Charles, a youngster, started her venture ‘Pigtails and Ponys’ when she was in college. The venture today has grown multi-fold. Nivedha says, “Handicraft venture can be a viable career option. People need to believe in what they are doing. They should have a bigger vision than just starting a venture. We had a vision and now, our venture has become a brand. Having said that, perseverance, persistence and courage to take a blind leap of faith is the key to the success of any business.”
On being asked about the future of the field, Asha says, “The methods of making handmade products remain the same. It is the variety of new and fresh designs that is catching everyone’s attention. As long as the designs are trendy and eye-catching, there will be immense scope for the growth of handicrafts. Unique and modern ideas and designs are very crucial. One should go non-toxic and eco-friendly. Also, cost becomes secondary when it comes to handicrafts. As long as the quality is good, people are willing to pay.”