Paper gets a twist

As piles of old newspapers and magazines collect, most people would rather sell them to the local ‘ruddiwala’ for a nominal amount than recycle. But Swarna V took these unwanted items and turned them into beautiful artworks. It is this passion for recycling that led her to start ‘Krafty Waves’, a start-up that specialises in paper quilled products.

What initially started as a hobby has now turned into a full-time business for Swarna. “I have always been interested in art and craft, since I was a child. I used to try different techniques and methods. It was only in 2008, when I was looking for some pictures, that I found some paper quill work. They were so beautiful that I began looking it up more. With a thin strip of paper, one can make such a beautiful product. Then, through YouTube videos and blogs, I learnt how to make them myself,” she says.

But it wasn’t until 2012 that she took it up as a business. “I started with 3D paper quilling but once my daughter was born, I had to set it aside. It was only in 2012 that I started ‘Krafty Waves’.” Initially, she was unsure about what she wanted to do, but then decided on paper artwork. “I was vague about what I wanted to do, as I had tried various techniques. But I wanted to concentrate on one thing and that was paper quilling.”

Swarna began this adventure into the art world with recycled paper accessories. “I thought ‘why not?’ and took to working with recyclable paper and magazines. Then I started a Facebook page and received a lot of encouragement.” ‘Krafty Waves’ has products like paper quilled fridge magnets, photo frames, wall hangings, gift boxes, earrings and necklaces. She also combines bead work with paper quilling, and she customises for people. “I like wall frames because they provide a larger canvas to work with, unlike earrings and necklaces.”

She also plans to learn new techniques like stamping and scrap booking. On why she named it ‘Krafty Waves’, she says, “I wanted it to be something related to the colour blue because it’s my favourite. Also, I wanted it to reflect my love for craftwork. Just like the waves, which are never ending, my artwork is too. I want to experiment with different techniques in the future.”  From a young age she has loved craftwork. “I have always been attracted to bright colours and that reflects in my work. I also like to experiment with textures and patterns. If I see a bright combination, I keep it in mind and use it later. And I design whatever comes to my mind – I never prepare.” Although she has done a series on recycled materials, she also works with other ones.