BLOG

Pojagi Technique: An Art of Fabric Joinery.
About Pojagi: Pojagi is a traditional Korean wrapping cloth that is usually square and can be made from different materials. It is typically used for gift wrapping during weddings and Buddhist rites. Recently, it has gained recognition as a traditional art form and can be found in museums, inspiring modern re-interpretations. In Korean folk religions, wrapping something was believed to protect its good luck.There are several terms used to describe Pojagi, such as Kung Po for those used in the palace, Min Po for those used by commoners, Kyop Po... Read more...
Roller Print
Roller printing, also known as Intaglio, cylinder printing or machine printing, is a printing technique that Thomas Bell of Scotland invented in 1783. Roller printing applies patterns or designs onto textiles, primarily fabric, using engraved rollers. In India, it was a popular and efficient technique in textile printing till the mid-80s, allowing for the mass production of intricate patterns with high precision. Around the world, this process is widely used in the textile industry to create various designs on fabrics for clothing, upholstery, and other textile products. Here is a... Read more...
The Curious Tale of Urban Environmentalists
In the enchanting world of urban paradoxes, where concrete jungles sprout faster than Chrysanthemums, I present a tale of the tragicomedies of our time. Brace yourselves for a journey through the curious evolution of an erstwhile destroyer of ancestral greenery, now turned saviour of the environment - all in the name of "Save the Green." A few years back, citing the problems of maintaining the old building, my neighbours demolished their 70-year-old ancestral home to construct an apartment complex through a Joint Venture, which resulted in cutting down almost a... Read more...
Crafting a balanced life
It takes 6 to 8 months to grow cotton, & no amount of hard work can prepone the harvest. We're not exempt from the ebb & flow of nature, & we, like the cotton, have our own pace.The elderly rural women, incapable of hard labour, turn to spinning, but they're wise enough to know that rest during noon is non-negotiable. Our dyer, a weekend artist, understands the importance of downtime—our warper, also a farm labourer, reserves evenings for work. Women artisans intuitively know when it's the time to quilt &... Read more...
The Timeless Elegance of Cotton Handkerchiefs.
Introduction:In a world dominated by disposable products, there's something truly remarkable and nostalgic about ambara charaka handspun and handwoven cotton handkerchiefs. Beyond their rich history, these small squares of fabric embody the essence of sustainable living, offering a timeless elegance often overlooked in today's fast-paced society.1. Eco-Sensitive Production Process:Unlike their disposable counterparts, handwoven cotton handkerchiefs are crafted from natural cotton fibres, making them a conscious choice for reducing waste and minimizing our ecological footprint. Their eco-sensitive production process aligns with a sustainable lifestyle.2. Comfort and Versatility:Handmade cotton handkerchiefs provide unparalleled... Read more...
Dhurries: A Comprehensive Guide.
Dhurries are a type of floor covering often overlooked but hold unique cultural significance and practical appeal. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the meaning of Dhurrie, explore the distinctions between Dhurries and carpets, discuss their maintenance, and uncover the weaving hubs in India. Meaning of Dhurrie: Dhurrie comes from the Sanskrit word 'dhurika,' which means 'rug' or 'carpet.' Dhurrie is a traditional, flat-woven floor covering originating from India. These textiles are crafted using various materials, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant colours. Dhurrie vs Carpet: Understanding the Differences: While... Read more...
What's the difference between Recycling, Repurposing, Reusing and Upcycling?
Individuals & industries increasingly prioritise environmentally friendly practices to pursue sustainable living. Four terms commonly arise in such discussions: Recycling, Repurposing, Upcycling, & Reusing. Although these concepts share the common goal of reducing waste & environmental impact, their approaches & implications differ. I will explain the distinctions between these practices, focusing on textiles as the material & delving into their pros & cons to make it easier to understand.   Recycling: Recycling is about converting materials into new products & reducing the need for raw materials. Example: Imagine you have a... Read more...
Weaving the (loop)holes together.
Someone told me a joke when I was a kid, and I still remember it. And the joke goes like this: How does one make a mosquito net? Ans - By stitching all the holes together! At that age, I had found it too funny and had laughed my heart out.  Cut two: In one of my north Karnataka textile expeditions, while passing through a small village, I met a local cooperative society manager who showed me a mosquito net made from ambara charaka handspun and handwoven cotton fabric!  While interacting... Read more...
Dobby Weaves: A Glimpse into Karnataka's Rich Textile Heritage.
Introduction:In an ongoing effort to sustain ambara charaka handspun and handwoven cotton weaves and bring many rare rural produce to the urban consumer, Metaphor Racha introduces "Dobby weaves of Karnataka". Join us on a journey through the history, technique, and inspiring efforts to preserve the artistry of Dobby Weaves.The Essence of Dobby Weaves:Dobby Weaving is a meticulous process that employs a separate set of warp threads and a unique tool, a dobby, mounted onto the loom. The dobby, not to be confused with a machine, is a mechanical tool that... Read more...
Khadi vs Handloom - 7 Key Differences You Must Know.
In the rich tapestry of India's textile heritage, Khadi and Handloom stand as distinct pillars, each weaving a unique narrative. While both involve the skill of handweaving, a closer look reveals crucial differences that set them apart. This comprehensive guide unravels the seven pivotal distinctions between Khadi and Handloom, shedding light on their individuality. 1. Yarn Origins: Khadi's Handspun Elegance vs. Handloom's Mill-Spun Precision. The fundamental difference lies in the yarn itself. Khadi, the epitome of handcrafted luxury, employs handspun or manually spun yarn. On the contrary, Handloom textiles use... Read more...
UN's Sustainable Development Goals and Khadi.
The United Nations' 2030 Agenda lays a global transformation roadmap for sustainable development. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are at their core, each a call to action for countries worldwide. As an entrepreneur deeply rooted in the grassroots-level craft industry, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of handcrafted textiles in contributing to the UN's ambitious agenda. In this regard, the making of Khadi fabric has the potential to address all 17 goals and here's how: 1. No Poverty: Khadi stands as a resilient economic lifeline for rural communities. When unpredictable weather conditions... Read more...
Your Ultimate Guide to Bug-Free, Aromatic Clothes.
Introduction: In the eternal battle against wardrobe invaders, arming yourself with knowledge about the seven notorious culprits is the first step towards victory. From carpet beetles to clothes moths and crickets, these pesky insects can wreak havoc on your favourite fabrics. This guide explores practical tips and tricks for using organic ingredients to keep your wardrobe clean, insect-free, and wonderfully aromatic. Identifying the Culprits: 1. Carpet Beetles: These prolific creatures target natural fibres like wool, mohair, fur, and feathers. 2. Clothes Moths: Feeding on fur, flannel, wool, soiled fabrics, and even hair, clothes moths... Read more...