Ensures fair living wage for producers
Discloses the community being impacted
Reduces the environmental impact
Focusses on women producers
Created using handcrafted methods
Reduces/Reuses/
Recycles resources
Recycles resources
Made out of responsible materials
Avoids use of chemicals or toxic materials
Purpose
Appliqué work from Kutch, Gujarat, is a vibrant traditional craft known for its bold colors, intricate patterns, and expert needlework. This technique involves layering carefully hand-cut fabric pieces onto a base fabric to create detailed motifs inspired by nature, folklore, and cultural symbols. Distinctive for its striking contrasts and elaborate cutwork, Kutch appliqué features decorative stitching that brings each design to life. Artisans enhance their creations with mirrors, beads, and sequins, adding shimmering accents that catch the light and elevate the visual impact. This meticulous craft transforms everyday textiles into stunning garments, wall hangings, and home décor, celebrating a rich cultural heritage while showcasing the skill and creativity of Kutch’s artisans.
People
Ruchi Lokesh Tank is not only a master artisan but also a driving force for social change. Deeply moved by the hardships faced by women living below the poverty line, she founded an organization that empowers them through traditional craft. What began with just a few women has grown into a thriving community of artisans who now earn a dignified living through embroidery, beadwork, appliqué, and jewelry-making. Ruchi’s initiative provides these women with vital skills, income, and a renewed sense of purpose, enabling them to support their families and gain financial independence. Her work exemplifies how heritage crafts can serve as both a livelihood and a lifeline, preserving cultural traditions while transforming lives.
Planet
Appliqué work from Kutch not only preserves a rich cultural heritage but also embodies principles of environmental sustainability. Traditionally practiced using upcycled and repurposed fabrics, this craft minimizes textile waste by giving new life to leftover materials. Artisans skillfully hand-cut motifs from fabric scraps—often sourced from old garments or surplus cloth—and transform them into intricate designs that adorn textiles, garments, and home décor. By relying on hand-stitching techniques instead of industrial processes, the craft reduces the environmental footprint associated with machine production and synthetic dyes. The use of locally available materials and minimal resources highlights a conscious approach to creativity rooted in circular design. Appliqué work from Kutch stands as a testament to how traditional crafts can inspire sustainable practices while producing art that is both meaningful and environmentally responsible.
