JOIN USWhen you trip, chances are it’s over a disheveled looking rock or your own feet. But occasionally, you might stumble upon something that’s worth a second look. Had anyone told Reetika Vaish a few years ago that she would become a decoupage expert, she’d have laughed in their face. Now, it’s her primary passage to channel her creativity.
“I have never been into crafting and I didn’t do much of it growing up. In fact, I spent eight years in the corporate sector! But when my son was born, I quit my job to look after him. This is when I chanced upon a video on YouTube about decoupage. It got me interested and I was eager to learn it as it isn’t tedious and the materials are easily available. I have no idea how I got so passionate about this, but I enjoy it a lot,” she says.
This is how ‘RTK’s Creations’ was born. She explains that a first-time mother, especially a stay-at-home one, needs something to explore and keep her mind occupied. “This is why I’ve started workshops for people who are interested to learn something different. I even go over to their house if needed because I understand how difficult it is to leave your child alone. When I needed someone to come home and teach me, I had no one.” In fact, the first time she left her son alone was when she attended a workshop on decoupage. “I left him with my husband from 10 am to 6 pm, and I couldn’t stop thinking about him!”
For the most part, Reetika has learnt the art of decoupage from YouTube videos. “I attended the workshop because I wanted to know about where to get the materials. When I went there, I realised I didn’t have to use Mod Podge, but I could use any glue for the base.”
She makes all kinds of decoupage items, including trays, boxes, mobile and tablet covers, wallets and more. “Initially, I made them for myself. But it was Diwali time so I gifted them to family members and they loved it! Now, I mainly customise orders.” Although she had the opportunity to put up her products on online shopping sites, she rejected the offer because, “My products are unique. I don’t make the same product twice, so I can’t cater to bulk orders.”
At first, she’d work at night but now that her son goes to daycare, she has more free time to work during the day. “He won’t even let me answer a call! But now that he’s going to daycare, I get about three hours to finish my work. I also make soaps and candles but I don’t want to market them yet because they involve heat. Maybe, when my son grows older I can think about it, but for now I’m happy with my decoupage work.” Not only does she make beautiful designs, but also willingly shares her knowledge with everyone.
For details, log on to her Facebook page www.facebook.com/rtkcreations