The art of Hand Block Printing
Hand block printing is one of the famous art form of India. It is also an oldest art form which was discovered centuries ago. Hand block printing consists of dying and colouring a fabric using wooden blocks. In this the artisan or the craft person use wooden or metal blocks to create beautiful designs on different fabrics. Linoleum blocks are also used at ties. It is also referred to as wooden printing.
The Process of Block Printing in India:
The block to be used in the block printing for the design is created first. The design of the block printing are usually a traditional Indian motif, which are generally by the nature, beliefs, and customs of the region. There can also be geometric patterns, animals, or plants as designs.
India is one of the largest manufacturers and exporters of block printed fabric in the world. The blocks are made of teak which is a deciduous hardwood tree.
The fabric which is to be block printed is first washed to make free of starch. If the fabric to be printed, is already colored. It is washed again to get rid of excess color. Then it is stretched over the table and is tightened with pins. The colors are kept ready in separate boxes.
Colour is mixed separately and kept ready. The blocks used in the block printing are made of teak wood and hand-carved. The blocks used in the printing are soaked in oil for 10-15 days to soften the timber.
Good hand block printing requires great craftsmanship and skill in order to create uniform and neat block printing patterns. The vibrant and meaningful motifs on the Indian block print fabric adds uniqueness to this handicraft.
Posted On -
09-November-2019
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Everything you want to know about Ikat
Ikat is a dying process done with silk and cotton fabrics. The end result is the cloth bathed and glittered in colorful patterns. Odisha Ikat is very famous for its sarees. Ikat patterns are dyed and binded into the threads before the cloth is weaved and is ready for sale. Ikat is different from tie and dye. Dying of the cloth first differentiates it from the Tie and Dye process where the fabric is woven in the first place.
The technique of dying and weaving, now popularly known as ikat, is believed to have originated in South East Asia, Central Asia, South America, and West Africa. It is one of the most ancient techniques of dyeing fabrics. The term “Ikat” is derived from the Malay word mengikat which means to tie or to bind. The Ikat from Odisha dates back to the 12th century when artisans from the Patan region of modern-day Gujarat migrated to Orissa and brought the craft to Odisha.
There are three varieties of Ikat from Odisha:
• Single Ikat: This is a process in which either the warp yarns or the weft are dyed, only one of the two is done.
• Combined Ikat: In combined Ikkat, both warp yarns and the weft are used together in different parts of the fabric and it is slightly complex.
• Double Ikat: Double Ikat is a process where both warp and weft threads tied in a precise manner, that the threads from both axis merge with each other for the complete pattern.
The traditional ikat is made by hands, however, nowadays the machine is also used. With the traditional process of making Orissa Ikat sarees by hand, it can take up to seven months between two people to complete one length of a saree.
Posted On -
02-November-2019
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All about Crafts museum, Delhi
The National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum is popularly known as the National Crafts Museum. It is situated in New Delhi and is one of the largest crafts museums in India.
This crafts museum was established over 30 years ago and was established with the efforts of a freedom fighter Smt Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, This museum is run by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. It is situated on the corner of the Pragati Maidan, facing the Purana Qila complex. This museum was started in the early 1950s, however, was able to attain a good position and had a substantial amount of collection by the 1980s.
The building is designed by the architect called Charles Correa and the museum holds over 35000 pieces of painting, embroidery, textiles, various crafts of clay, stone and wood handicrafts.
The museum is distinctly categorized into Textiles gallery, Courtly crafts gallery, Ritual craft gallery, Bhuta Sculpture Gallery, Cultic Craft gallery, and Folk and tribal art gallery.
This museum has a fascinating display in many galleries covering sculpture, folk painting and an outstanding collection of textiles hidden away in the back galleries past the vendors. An exquisite range of textile designs like Chanderi, Jamawar, kalamkari, Pashmina, Kantha, Ikkat, Pichwai, Phulkari, Chamba Rumal, Painthani, Himru the list is endless, is displayed here.
One can also interact with the master weavers, marvel at their art and buy some stuff also. It also houses amazing handicraft arts as well as Toda, Naga, Gond, Lambadi, Verli and many many more. You can also witness artists making amazing Gond paintings depicting the biosphere flora and fauna trees, plants, animals, birds, insects, lovely bright colors, simple lines yet beautifully shaped bodies of wild, domestic sometimes imaginary creatures with emotive eyes.
It is an amazing experience to be in Craft Museum and see the primeval world, minimalist existential surroundings, undaunted human spirit and quintessential serene and surreal beauty of human excellence.
One can visit the museum between 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM and the ticket is priced between 20-200 INR.
Posted On -
19-October-2019
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How to store antiques and handicrafts carefully
Most people don't have the time, energy and resources to learn how to care for their collectibles. One cannot maintain the antiques the way they’re at the museum, so here are some basic care considerations to keep in mind for antiques.
Avoid sunlight or any other direct light: Light harm most collectible, especially organic materials like most types of wood, paper, and textiles. Direct sunlight leads to the fading colors of the collectibles. The harsh light dries out the material and fades the colors too.
All collections should be displayed away from direct sunlight. Even things that seem indestructible, like plastics, can melt when stored near a sunny window. Lights in display cabinets should be used sparingly as well. Turning display lights on when the air feels a bit damp can help alleviate humidity, however.
Keep away from moisture and humidity: A good balance of the atmosphere help in the longevity of the antiques and collectibles. When there's not enough humidity, items like paintings, wood, and paper can shrink, crack and become very brittle. When there is excessive moisture, rust can develop on metal items and erodes the outer layer.
Change in climates: If you decide to change the way you are storing items, moving from hot to cold and vice versa, always do these changes slowly and gradually with time. Most antiques get deteriorated when exposed to extreme temperatures too quickly. For example, when exposed to extreme temperature changes such as the tiny cracks may appear on the glaze of ceramics.
Avoid excessive handling: Another way to keep most any item in top shape is by avoiding excessive handling. Manhandling deteriorates the quality of the antiques. People working at the museum always wear gloves to handle antiques with care.
Posted On -
14-October-2019
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Locks of Dindigul!
Have you ever heard of locks as a handicraft item? Doesn’t ring a bell right?
The art of making a lock doesn’t seem interesting and fascinating. It may seem to be outdated in this automatic world and bar-code systems. But the locksmiths of Dindigul are known for their creativity and strong lock making. Dindigul is a small-town Tamil Nadu in South India. This art form still prevails in this area. This art form has been in this area for over 200 years now.
History says that there was a king called Sankaralinga Asari of Dindigul, who’s daughter married locksmith. This locksmith brought the culture of Lock making in this draught struck town.
Locks are made of brass, steel or other metal. Some locks were particularly made for lockers and if one loses the key, he/she would have to travel to Dindigul to remake one.
People still come back to make a duplicate key for 50-100 years old keys. The locksmiths also made smart locks to outsmart the thieves.
This lock making industry is at the verge of extinction and a few locksmiths are only carrying the tradition.
Posted On -
07-September-2019
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Why Indian handicrafts work as a perfect souvenir?
Indian handicrafts are known for its beauty and exquisiteness. Each handicraft has some history and culture attached to it which makes it unique. Indian Handicrafts are made by hands and no machinery involved in it. it is a true artisan job and is made with love. India is known for its rich culture and heritage.
We are rich in arts and are known for craftsmanship. Indian handicrafts have been a flourishing center for handicrafts ever since British rule. Back in history, Emperors and traders also encouraged the hand made products and encouraged the production of crafts. Indian handicrafts have a market all over the world.
These handicrafts make a perfect gift and souvenir. They are ideal for gifting to friends, family and/or keepsakes for self. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, each place has some handicraft to offer. Each city offers a great deal of craftsmanship like kathputli from Rajasthan, Bamboo work from Chhatisgarh, Blue Pottery from Jaipur, Terracotta work from Assam, Handmade juttis from Punjab, Seashell craft from Goa and Andaman, Carpets from Uttar Pradesh, Madhubani from Bihar, etc. The uniqueness and different creativity of Indian Handicrafts make them different from any other country.
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Posted On -
31-August-2019
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How to take care of wooden handicrafts at home
Few tips and tricks to take care of wooden handicrafts at home!!
1. Sanding is one of the most effective ways to preserve the wooden handicrafts and ensure there longevity. You can simply sand the wood surface of the handicraft and always do the sanding in the same direction as the wood fiber is on the piece. Once the sanding is completed, brush off the sand dust to clean the handicraft.
2. Applying Linseed oil on the wooden handicrafts helps in retaining their shine. You can apply this oil with cotton or with the help of a brush. Leave the handicraft undisturbed for some time. so that timber or wood can soak in the oil.
3. Always do the dry brushing to dust off the dust and dirt. You can also use a clean cloth to remove the dust.
4. Try to keep the wooden handicrafts away from water and direct sunlight.
5. Always use a clean and dry cloth to clean wood handicrafts
6. After cleaning then apply a coat of wax. Always apply in the direction, the wood fiber is. Never apply pressure on the wood.
7. If the handicraft is embellished with the carvings, every detail should be cleaned. First, clean the handicraft and then let it dry for good 20-25 minutes. Apply gasoline on it. Keep it on for 30 minutes.
Posted On -
24-August-2019
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All about the Jute!!
What is Jute?
Jute is a natural vegetable/plant fibre. Jute is made from the outer stem and skin of the plant jute. Jute is famously known as the golden fibre due to its shiny golden colour and the financial worth. Jute is valued for its versatility and wide uses across the world.
Jute is mainly obtained from the Bengal Delta Plain in the Ganges delta region of Bangladesh and India. Jute plant generally needs a lot of water to grow. High humidity and monsoon climate is ideal for cultivation of the jute plant.
The most common use of jute fibre is in the production of jute fabric and a number of other fabrics like canvas. These fabrics are used in clothing, upholstery and furnishings, packaging of many kinds and textiles, packages. Jute and its by-products are used in medicine, cosmetics and paints.
The jute fibre comes from the stem and the outer skin of the jute plant. The fibres are first extracted by a process called retting. Retting consists of bundling of the stems together and is immersed in slow running water. After retting, the non-fibrous material is removed and workers pull the crucial fibres from the jute stem. This laborious job is known as stripping and is done manually.
Why jute is considered important and eco-friendly?
- Jute is bio-degradable and compostable
- Jute is recyclable
- Jute bags are well resistant and can be used again and again. Use of Jute has reduced the need for plastic bags
- Jute can be grown without any pesticides or fertilisers.
- Jute grows within 6 months and offers large crop yield when harvested.
- The jute plant absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, cleaning the air.
Posted On -
18-August-2019
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Best Place to Buy Handicraft Items in Delhi
1. Dastkar:
Dastkar was founded in 1981 in Delhi, by a group of six women including Laila Tyabji, who is the current chairperson. Dastkar is an Indian non-government organisation working with craftspeople across India, for promotion and revival of traditional crafts of India. Its home to some of the most beautiful handicrafts in Delhi.
Testimonial: Khushbu Tiwari, a handicraft lover in Delhi said, “Dastkar is a photographers paradise! Needless to say that shoppers are going to have a wonderful experience too. Handmade sarees, mojris, jute bags, rugs, bamboo Jewellery, clay pottery, organic stuff, and garden accessories phew you think of it and u will find it there. No scope of bargaining so dont attempt it there. Craftsman are very kid friendly too! Overall its a GREAT PLACE!”
Address: Nature Bazaar venue, Anuvrat Marg, Kisan Haat Andheria Modh, New Delhi, Delhi 110074
Hours: 10AM–7PM
Phone: 011 2680 8633
2. Dilli Haat
Dilli Haat is one stop destination for the best handicrafts in India. Walk into Dilli Haat to explore sandalwood and rosewood carvings, metal works, gems, handmade jewellery, ethnic wear, footwear made with camel hide and much more.
Testimonial: Shubhara Sharma, “Whenever I need to shop for handicrafts in Delhi, I visit Dilli Haat. The INA outlet is my favourite as it filled with amazing craftsmen and crafts.”
Address: It is located in INA Colony & Lal Sain Mandir Marg, Janakpuri
Lal Sai Mandir Marg Opposite Hari Nagar Bus Depot, Janakpuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110058
West Kidwai Nagar, Near INA Metro Station, New Delhi, Delhi 110023
Sri Aurobindo Marg, Laxmi Bai Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110023
Netaji Subhash Palace, Lala Jagat Narayan Marg, Guru Govind Singh College, Pitampura, Delhi, 110034
Hours: 10AM–10PM
Phone: 011 2731 7663
3. Lepakshi Andhra Pradesh Emporium
Andhra Pradesh embraces a fascinating range of art forms and traditional crafts. This place showcases the beautiful handicrafts of Andhra Pradesh in Delhi.
Testimonial: Neeraj said, “This is a beautiful place for shopping for handicrafts in Delhi. It has brass items, paintings, wooden crafted items, soaps, miniature paintings, hand painted bags, jewellery etc. Also, everything is reasonably priced.”
Address: B-6, State Emporia Complex, Baba Kharak Singh Marg
Hours: 10AM–8PM
Phone: +91 11 2336 6897
4. Tripura Handloom & Handicraft Development Corporation
The sacred art of weaving of Tripura gives birth to some of the most stunning craft pieces. This centre displays tribal fabrics, sericulture products, bamboo root work, decorative items and furniture.
Testimonial: Amit states, “Enter this place to surrender yourself to a complete shopping experience. This place has the best handicrafts in Delhi. Enjoy.”
Address: B-3, State Emporia Complex, Baba Kharak Singh Marg
Hours: 10AM–8PM
Phone: +91 11 2611 1709
Posted On -
12-December-2018
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Top 4 Eco Friendly Handicraft Items from North East
Craffi presents to you the top 4 nature friendly handicraft items from the land of North East. Read on..
1. Kouna Craft:
The word Kouna is derived from the word “Kou”. Manipuri name Kou spells craft items. In Meitei culture, Kouna is closely associated with deity “Phakamgba”. Some members of this culture have a strong belief that Kouna is a reincarnation of their deity “Phakamgba”. Thus, the people of Manipur have a deep sense of emotional and religious connection with Kouna
One of the most ancient traditions of the Manipuri society is Kouna craft. Natures gifts to Manipur, Kouna is a spongy water reed like bamboo. Every house of Manipur has a minimum of two Kouna handicrafts items. Culturally, it been employed in the process of mat making. Kouna plants are eco-friendly, non-pollutant and bio degradable.
Khangadok cluster primarily dominates the Kouna handicraft. Khangabok is home to skilled artisans who are trained to weave around moulds. In the region of Langmeithet, everyone weaves mats and some of them have also taking training in weaving 3D products. However, in Shikong and Kuarok Maring village very few people weave mats for sale.
Kouna handicraft is evolving, today many new crafts items such as baskets in different shapes and sizes, cushions and mattresses, boxes, trays, ladies purse are crafted out of Kouna. People have started comprehending de facto that once it is planted it lasts approximately 20 to 25 years and is harvested three to four times a year. This harvesting knowledge has resulted in a growth of people harvesting Kouna to their low -lying fields in Thoubal.
2. Reed Mats:
The Reed plant is indigenous to Manipur. For centuries, in Meitei culture reed or Kouna is connected to deity Phakamgba. Legend has it that it is the reincarnation of deity Phakamgba. Therefore, the inhabitants of Manipur hold a deep spiritual and emotional connection with Kouna.
Originally belonging to Thoubal district, Kouna is strong and elastic. The humble artisans have been dipping their hands in this paddy straw tinted grass. Historically, kauna mat is famous for curing backache once the patient lies on it. It is also used a herb to cure fever
India embraces a strong ancient craft heritage that speaks of resource optimisation, waste management and sustainable material usage. This grass craft symbolizes the same.
The cultivation of Kouna has reached new heights. Today reed mat have a huge demand in India as well as in international market. U.K, U.S, Germany, France, Switzerland, UAE are customers of this mat. The main reason being, apart from its aesthetic appeal this craft is also eco-friendly, non-pollutant and biodegradable.
3. Cane and Bamboo Craft
Manipur echoes with the praises of cane and bamboo sang by Pena singers and other bards. Cane and Bamboo continue to be an integral part of Manipur. Yet, Meitei script holds no mention of these two. On the flip side, ancient manuscripts such as the Panthoibi Khonggul, the Poireiton Khunthokpa, the Thanga Chinggoirol, and the Yumsharol talk about the way villagers used cane and bamboo. These scripts highlight it was used to craft baskets and traps.
The Ningthourol Lambuba, a manuscript on different Meitei Kings, articulates the use of Pai (a carrying basket) by the Meiteis. Traditionally, Pai was hung on the shoulder to carry things. The manuscript further states that in around 17th century Meiteis replaced Pai with bags made of cloth.
In ancient time, Manipur valley was dotted with bamboo products. Houses, cooking-huts, out-houses and granaries were all constructed using bamboo and thatch. The reason being both items were available in abundance.
Cane and bamboo craft continues to dominate the Manipur craft map. In the bygone era, natural fibres were used to make daily products. Nowadays, tribes have evolved towards making sellable materials that hold aesthetic yet functional use. The second larger producer of bamboo products, Manipur produces varied bamboo craft products such as sofa sets, murhas, mats, basketry, tray, chair, table, flower vase, ashtray and other decorative and utility articles.
4. Black Pottery :
The tradition of Black Pottery is believed to have originated from two Longpi villages in Manipur, namely Longpi Khullen and Longpi Kajui. Tangkhul community resides in the hill district of Manipur and practised this craft.
The origin of this soulful craft is attributed to Goddess Panthobi. Legend has it Goddess Panthobi is the mother of artifact-making. Thus, Longpi Pottery holds significance in rituals during childbirth and marriage. Initially, only the royalty and the rich of Manipur had access to this pottery.
The tradition of black pottery is very much alive in soul of Longpi. Even today, each family in Longpi masters the art of making this beautiful pottery. Whilst all the houses of this village are buzzing with the making of black pottery, not all sell it. Some indulge in this craft only to satisfy their soul.
A couple of years back around 17 women of this village joined hands to form “Loree Hamlei”. These talented women have sold black pottery through craft stores across India and even abroad. Since there is no chemical used, pregnant women across globe are using it to avoid morning sickness.
Today, in addition to the characteristic cooking pots, stout kettles, quaint bowls, mugs and nut trays etc. new design elements are also being introduced such as table lamps, candlestick holders etc.
Posted On -
13-November-2018
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Pearl Care
Pearls the most beautiful organic gemstone need to be handled with love and affection. Craffi the Karigar presents a complete, easy and efficient guide on taking care of pearls.
Read on for storage and cleanliness tips. Do keep in mind the pointers listed that should be completely avoided
Storage:
1. Say no plastic bags or jewellery boxes. As these often cause scratches. Opt for bags made of silk or cotton. Also, always store pearls separately to prevent damage.
2. Designate a special space for pearl storage. Never hang pearls, they should only be stored flat.
3. While travelling, always carry pearls in a protective fabric pouch. Ensure they are not stored in a security box as they get dehydrated soon.
4. Store them in a place that’s away from health and cold.
5. Always allow pearls to breathe.
Avoid
1. Never brush your pearls with use toothbrushes, scouring pads or abrasive material. This will not clean them, rather it will damage it. Also, do not use commercial cleaning materials.
2. Avoid cleaning with material that contain chlorine bleach, vinegar or ammonia. Anything apart from soap and water should be avoided.
3. Do not steam clean pearls.
4. Pearls should not come in contact with direct source of heat such as fireplace, stove etc.
5. Avoid strenuous activity while wearing pearls.
Cleaning Tips:
1. "Last Thing On First Thing Off" is the golden rule when it comes to pearls.
2. For cleaning, softly dab the water and soap on your pearls with a soft cloth.
3. Polish pearls only using soft cloth that is dry.
4. Use only those jewellery cleaners that are titled safe for Pearl
5. Always use only jewelry cleaners that are labeled as safe for Pearls.
6. If you accidentally spill anything on pearls, then quickly soak them in lukewarm water with gentle natural soap. Rinse well and let it dry.
Posted On -
16-July-2018
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Monsoon Care for Handicraft Items
Follow these tips to protect your much loved handicraft items from monsoon.
1. Wooden Craft: Monsoon ensures that the air is pregnant with moisture. The resultant can be a swollen wood. Here are the steps you need to follow during the rainy season to guard those exquisite wooden craft: as a thumb rule, always use dry cloth for cleaning wooden handicraft. Always make sure, there’s no water leakage near the wooden craft items.
2. Carpets and Rugs: Carpets add grace, elegance and splendour to home décor. Monsoon season calls for extra care of these pieces of jewel. Always ensure there’s no dampness in carpets. Vacuuming should be done twice a week to remove dirt. In addition, regular dusting should be done, this cleans the carpet off dead fibres and flies that can result in allergies and itching. If any kind of water or food spills over the carpet, let it get sun kissed for some time. In case you wish to store your carpets during monsoon, roll it and never fold it. Add silica gel pouches as they absorb dampness.
3. Metal Handicrafts: Metal handicrafts are gorgeous and add spark to a room. On the flip side, they can easily be rusted if not taken care off. Monsoons come with high moisture and this can rust metal handicrafts damaging them. To avoid this from happening, as a golden rule, regularly clean them using a dry soft cloth for cleaning. Wipe of the finger prints completely as they can bring down the luster.
4. Leather decor and accessories: The moisture and dampness can permanently spoil leather sofa, bags, shoes, chair and belt. All the money you have spent on buying these expensive products can go down the drain. To avoid this from happening, follow the following steps: never leave leather bags wet for too long, always let them dry so that they do not carry fungus. A trick to drying them completely is to leave them under the fan overnight. Gently brush leather sofas daily. Whilst covering leather bags and shoes, always insert silica gel packets in them
To get regular updates and information on Indian handicrafts, log on to www.craffi.com
Posted On -
06-June-2018
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4 Indian Crafts That Have Survived the Wrath of Time
Indian handicrafts have witnessed the wrath of time. They have remained unchanged under copious kingdoms and cultures. Read on as Craffi, the Karigar presents 4 Indian have survived generations.
1. Madhubani: Prior to 1930 Madhubani paintings was a well-guarded secret of Madhubani region. In 1934, Bihar was hit by a major earthquake. This resulted in British officer of Madhubani area William G. Archer discovering this unique art on damaged walls of Madhubani region while he was examining the earthquake damage. Historically, during festivals, these paintings were crafted by women on walls and floors of their houses. Originated in the Mithila region in Bihar, it’s named after its mother village, and thus is also known as Mithila Paintings. Today, to preserve this art form prints of Madhubani are also used on table linens, napkin rings, and lamps, wall hangings etc. Silk sari borders, dupattas, kurtis etc. are also painted in Madhubani style.
2. Roghan Painting: Only 6 surviving people in this world practice this ancient art form. In the remote areas of Kutch, Rajasthan resides the humble and talented Khatri family that has practised this art form for generations. They believe that this art form might fade away as their next generation does not the patience required to take this up. These gorgeous paintings are made on fabric with castor oil, paints and a 6-inch thin mel rod.
3. Patola: Patola saris proudly wear the crown of being the most expensive saris in the world. The characteristic of these saris is that they can survive for approximately 300 years retaining the colour. Artisans dedicate six months to craft one sari. It takes 70 days for colouring silk threads and 25 days for weaving.
This tremendously multifaceted and time-consuming craft was dying, when designers and government came together to breathe life into it.
4. Manjusha: The only art form in India that is portrayed in series, Manjusha is a representation of a story. It originated from the land of Anga Pradesh (currently known as Bihar). Initially, all Manjusha products were crafted only for Bishahari festival. During the British rule this mysterious craft flourished. Unfortunately, in the middle 20th century, it started fading. Since then, the Bihar government had adopted copious initiatives for protection and encouragement of this craft and to patent it as Bhagalpur folk art.
For more fascinating and mysterious tales from the land of Indian handicrafts log on to www.craffi.com
Posted On -
06-June-2018
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4 Interesting Facts on Indian Handicrafts
Saluting the rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, Craffi, the Karigar presents fascinating and informative facts on Indian Handicrafts. Read on to discover how the ancient art of handicrafts has saved tress, provides employment and more!!
1. In 2012, Madhubani artists painted tree trunks with masterpieces and prevented them from being cut
In 2012, Madhubani paintings protected more than 100 trees from being cut. The reason being these trees were decorated with Madhubani painting. Forms of gods and spiritual symbols such as Radha-Krishna, Rama-Sita etc. were painted on these trees resulting in none of them being chopped off. The artists also transformed highway number 52, Madhubani district into a tourist attraction.
2. Rogan Painting is done by only one family in India
The legacy of unique and mesmerizing handicraft of Rogan Painting is practised by only one family in India. This lone Muslim family in India, the Khatris has ensured their craft is breathing and blossoming for over three centuries. Gafoorbhai Khatri, head of the Khatri family, has taught this craft to each and every member of the family. Surprisingly, most members of his family have won a national award.
3. Indian textile & handicrafts industry is the largest employment generator after agriculture
Recently, the minister of state for textiles Ajay Tamta threw light on de facto that Indian textile & handicrafts industry is largest employment generators after agriculture. Around 7 million people including a large percentage of women. At ASSOCHAM event, the minister of state for textiles Ajay Tamta, spoke about economic importance of textile & handicrafts sector in terms of low capital investment, high ratio of value addition, and high potential for export and foreign exchange earnings.
4. World’s most expensive Kancheepuram Silk Saree “Vivah Pattu” was sold for $100,021; £50,679
As per Guinness Book World Records, the world’s most expensive saree was sold for Rs 39,31,627 ($100,021; £50,679), on 5th January 2008 made by Chennai Silks, India. This piece of treasure is adorned with 11 paintings by the celebrated Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma. 4760 man hours went into making this saree. Embroidered in metals such as gold, platinum and silver, this silk saree is punctuated with Navratna stones such as diamond, emerald, ruby, yellow sapphire, sapphire, topaz, pearl, cat’s eye and coral.
Posted On -
19-December-2017
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DIY: Tie & Dye Craft
Craft is not just a piece of beauty possessed by the owner. Craft is a love affair where you fall madly deeply in love. For this to happen, you need to surrender to its magic. What better way than to create your own craft.
Our world today is dominated with artificial things. However, the beauty of craft lies in its natural self. So, let’s go back to making dyes the ancient way. When natural plants, fruits and vegetables were used for tie and dye. Follow the step by step instructions sketched by Craffi. Go ahead, write a new love story!!
Ingredients:
1. Dye
2. Squeeze bottles
3. Rubber Bands
4. Rubber Gloves
5. Buckets/Bins
6. Scissors
7. Garbage Bags
Procedure:
1. Get your hands on your choice of dye material. Craffi recommends using natural fibres such as cotton.
2. Soak the fabric in water and then ring dry it. This effect ensures clothes react better to dyeing. In-case of new garments, always wash them first with a little detergent.
3. Make your dye!! Here’s your guide to natural dyes. For pinkish/red dyes, use beets and blueberries. Blackberries and red cabbage create purple dyes. Yellow onions give you a charming mustard yellow, coppery colour. A pale yellow dye is made with orange and lemon peels. To make dye, place chopped ingredients in a pot with twice as much water as ingredients. Boil the water and allow it to simmer for an hour. If the fabric calls for a deeper hue, leave the ingredients in the water (without heat) overnight. The last step is to remove all the hard material with a strainer and you are left with pure liquid dye.
4. Twist up the fabric and tie it with copious rubber bands.
5. Slip your fingers inside the gloves and the let magic begin. Simply, surrender to as many colours as your heart says. Use one tint or dye in sections to create stripes.
6. Spread the garment on a plastic protected surface. Spread the dye on the fabric, ensure it penetrates into folds. Repeat on the other side.
7. Allow fabric and dye to make love over night as they rest in plastic bag. This ensures the dye really sets into the fabric.
8. Remove your items from the plastic bag and rise them with cold water. Now, chop off the rubber bands.
Colour Combination:
1. When fuchsia and a little yellow come together red is born.
2. Orange is the baby of red and yellow.
3. Yellow and turquoise make green.
4. Blend a lot of turquoise with a little fuchsia to make blue.
5. Purple can be made using turquoise and fuchsia.
Posted On -
08-November-2017
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Taking Care of Ceramics
Colorful, chaotic, charismatic ceramic crafts brighten up the room with their historic presence. However, caring for this fine craft can be a daunting task. Thus, one of the most common damage cause is rough handling. Craffi, points out tips to keep your ceramic treasures shining for a long time. Read on:
- Always wash ceramics by hand. Before initiating the cleaning procedure, identify the ceramic type and material such as metal mounts, ivory etc. Examination should always be done under bright light. This will ensure ceramics are not damaged and any potential threats are identified.
- You do not have to eradicate all dirt and stains. In case of antique crafts, dirt or stains may embrace historic interest. It may always not be possible to remove dirt without damaging the piece. As a golden rule, before cleaning the entire piece, test clean a small part to make sure its damage free.
- Dishwasher is never a good option as dishwasher detergents, high temperatures, high pressure water are abrasive. They can permanently harm glazes and coloured enamel decoration. However, when the dishwasher cannot be avoided, go for top rack.
- Keep in knowledge, ceramics with luster finish can only be hand-washed. Unless, you wish to bid adieu to that glint of gold.
- Say no to household bleaches or proprietary cleaning products as they inject irreversible damage. Cleaning liquid can lead to new stains or make old stains worse. Abrasive creams and cleaners will hurt subtle adornment such as gilding, luster or enamels and also dull the glaze itself.
- Casseroles, pie plates, baking dishes are mostly oven safe. However, when using one, distribute their contents evenly, especially when reheating food. These delicate pieces should not be used for freezer storage or stovetop cooking.
- While handling delicate ceramics remove jewellery that might scratch or catch, such as rings, bracelets or watches.
- When you touch ceramics, your fingers leave behind a residue that can damage certain decorative finishes. Therefore, Craffi recommends using nitrile or vinyl gloves when handling ceramics.
- Never lift a piece of craft by its handle or any parts that stick out, such as finials, spouts, knobs and the limbs of figures. The reason being, most likely these fragile areas have been repaired in the past.
Posted On -
09-October-2017
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Taking Care of Silver
Silver ware of India consists of varied items like silver utensils, pooja articles, silver photo frames, antiques, gift items, candle stands etc. Gifting gods and goddesses in silver and silver coins are considered very auspicious in India. These gifts have a traditional meaning and serve as a great gifting option. Silver ware is famous for its beauty and intricate designs and how they can be used in kitchen, décor, gifting items etc. Taking care of silver ware can helping longevity of the item and helps in maintaining the luster. If we don’t take care of the silver handicrafts, they can lose their beauty and get dull.
So here are few DIY’s to take care of your precious silver items:
• Use concoction of soap and water. Take a piece of cloth and rub the soap and water mixture and until its clean.
• Use 2 teaspoon of baking soda and mix it with small bowl of water and gently rub the tarnished area, once the area is clean let it air dry and avoid sunlight
• This is a fun diy, where you can use an old toothbrush to clean the silver items. Take a pea size toothpaste on the brush and start brushing the area which requires polishing.
• Take 2 tablespoon of Lemon juice and rub the affected areas.
Here are few tips which will allow you to enjoy your silvers rather than cleaning them:
• Store them in proper dry place and avoid sunlight and water
• Keep cleaning your silver handicrafts whenever required
• Once cleaned make sure your silver handicrafts are completely dry before storing them (in case of silver utensils)
Posted On -
29-June-2017
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