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Conscious Consumerism and Handcrafted Products
In the past few years, as consumers become more aware of their purchasing power and its impact, questions arise like, "How can we be conscious consumers while supporting handmade products?" and "In the current economic scenario, it's not just the sellers but the buyers who are struggling, so what should we expect?" These crucial questions highlight a significant challenge: the handmade industry was not flourishing even before the pandemic. The economic upheaval has only made these challenges more apparent, especially on social media platforms."Conscious consumerism is not about buying less;... Read more...
Weaving Traditions: Handloom vs. Powerloom
In the intricate world of textiles, the threads of tradition and technology often intertwine, creating a complex tapestry of stories, skills, and societal impacts. As a craft-based e-commerce business, we frequently inquire about the difference between handloom and power loom fabrics. This curiosity reflects a deeper interest in not just the material but the hands and hearts behind these creations.The Essence of HandloomHandloom weaving is an age-old craft that embodies human ingenuity and heritage. Each handloom fabric piece is a testament to the weaver's skill, creativity, and cultural heritage. The... Read more...
Demystifying Khadi: Beyond the Fabric
In a recent survey on our social media, we asked a pertinent question: "Is there a lack of awareness about khadi amongst consumers?" The response was overwhelming, with 88% saying 'yes.' This has sparked a conversation on the responsibilities of creating awareness. Should the onus be on buyers asking more questions and seeking knowledge? Should it be the responsibility of the primary producers like Khadi sanghas, Bhandars, KVIC, or the MSME ministry? Or does the responsibility fall on brands like ours, often seen as middlemen?The truth is, almost everyone in... Read more...
Our Journey to Eco-Conscious Packaging
At Metaphor Racha, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We've diligently worked to minimize waste and plastic use for over seven years. From hand-block printed labels to e-generated bills, we strive to make eco-conscious choices. One of our biggest challenges has been finding the right packaging solution that aligns with our values and meets our diverse product needs.The Challenge of Traditional PackagingInitially, we used brown carton boxes, which seemed a sustainable choice. However, these boxes often required additional plastic coverings and sometimes didn't suit the variety of... Read more...
Why E-Commerce is a Sustainable Choice for Craft Brands
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift of many businesses online, a trend that has brought both opportunities and challenges. At Metaphor Racha, we've embraced e-commerce for the past seven years, witnessing firsthand its benefits and limitations. Here's why operating an online store makes practical sense and aligns with sustainable practices.1. Digital Visibility and Cost-EffectivenessIn a world where digital searches dominate, having a website ensures that our products are easily discoverable. Setting up and maintaining an online store costs significantly less than running a physical store. Plus, e-commerce allows us... Read more...
Sustainability: Beyond the Buzzword and Hashtags
In today's world, the term "sustainability" is everywhere. From eco-friendly products to green initiatives, it often feels like a catch-all term that loses meaning with every mention. This phenomenon, known as "semantic satiation," can render words like "green" and "sustainable" as vague concepts rather than actionable goals. So, what does sustainability entail, especially in the craft industry?Is Selling Less Sustainable?The belief that selling less is inherently more sustainable oversimplifies the issue. Working with handloom, natural dyes, and organic cotton certainly contributes to environmental sustainability, but it is not the sole... Read more...
Why Small Businesses Matter: Embracing Local Craft
In a world dominated by large corporations and mass production, the term "small business" often gets overshadowed. Yet, small businesses are crucial to our economy and communities, especially in craft. While the definition of a small business can vary by region, it often involves a unique set of attitudes and values. Here's why supporting small businesses, particularly those in the craft sector, is essential and impactful.   1. Strengthening Local Economies Small social enterprises, especially those rooted in local craft, contribute significantly to the local economy. They bring people-centric growth... Read more...
How Craft Supports You: The True Value of Handmade
In a world increasingly driven by mass production and convenience, the true value of handmade crafts often goes unnoticed. At Metaphor Racha, we believe in the profound impact of supporting traditional crafts on the artisans and you. Here’s how craft supports you in ways you might not have realized.1. Organic and Sustainable PracticesCotton grown organically, free from harsh chemicals and fertilizers, enhances soil fertility and reduces chemical production. This improves the health of producers and consumers and contributes to a more sustainable environment. Organic farming supports you by ensuring that... Read more...
Lessons in Craft: My Journey as a Pattern Master
At Metaphor Racha, every stitch and pattern tells a story of dedication and craftsmanship. My journey into fashion and pattern-making has been shaped not by formal training but by a blend of personal experiences, the wisdom of mentors, and a continuous learning process.One significant chapter in this journey involves Sanju, a tailor crucial in my early days of custom tailoring in Bengaluru. Although Sanju passed away 13 years ago, his influence on my craft remains profound. He began as a helper, but his keen understanding of form, shape, and proportion... Read more...
Rethinking Transparency: A Craft Brand's Perspective
At Metaphor Racha, transparency is not just a buzzword, it's a guiding principle deeply embedded in our practices. We've always been open about our textile-making processes, printing and embroidery methods, the artisans behind our work, and the economics of our craft. Our blog is a living testament to this commitment, offering insights into every aspect of our production.Yet, the question arises: Is Metaphor Racha fully transparent? The answer is not a simple yes or no. While we strive for openness, we recognize that transparency in the craft sector is a... Read more...
Transforming Waste into Art: Our Sustainable Journey
At Metaphor Racha, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. For years, hand-block printing has been a cherished craft in our collection because of our exclusive wooden blocks and our dedication to preserving the legacy of the 'unknown block maker.' A unique aspect of our printing process involves using a thick cotton cloth, locally known as "Achada," laid on the table before printing. This protective layer absorbs excess colour, preventing it from seeping into the wooden table. Given the amount of work involved, this cloth is discarded... Read more...
A Theory Behind Buying Four Handkerchiefs
A recent newspaper article revealed that handkerchiefs were the most searched product in January 2023. Many brands were highlighted, offering packs of three priced between ₹250 and ₹400. Yet, amid this list, Khadi handkerchiefs didn't cut it. While we're not allowed to use the trademarked term "Khadi," I feel compelled to discuss it.   The Khadi Handkerchief Theory Let's explore a creative theory. Bengaluru has around 10 lakh software employees. If each purchased just four Khadi handkerchiefs annually, the total consumption would be 10 lakh meters of Khadi fabric yearly.... Read more...