We view our artisans as partners and look for like-minded organizations that are just as committed to their employees, community, and the environment as they are dedicated to great quality and interesting design. The company below lives up to our expectations and makes some of our favorite felt items including the Raggamuffin House, the Felt Animal Set, and the Egg Cups and Covers.
Located in Jaipur, India, this company’s vision was born from the desire to strengthen the artisan community in India by promoting traditional crafts, particularly the art of making felt. Only a few communities in rural India still practice this ancient tradition and the craft was on the verge of becoming obsolete. This company employees more than 150 women felt makers or “pinjaras”. Because they have families to care for, most of the women would not be able to work outside their homes. In collaboration with a UNICEF supported program, this vendor provides skill-building jobs and allows the artisans to care for their children and households while working in their homes. The opening, dyeing, cutting, and stitching of wool is done by these talented women.
Did you know? Jaipur was planned according to principles of Hindu architectural theory. It is one of the best-organized cities in Asia. When the Prince of Wales visited Jaipur in 1853, the whole city was painted pink. It is known as the Pink City because of its distinctive look and the fact that many streets, parks, and buildings are still painted pink today.
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Paige