New Craft Training for Women in Tamil Nadu

The Tribal Initiative (THI), Harur PO, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu

Contact: Dr. Lalitha Regi

Dates: April 2022 – March 2023 (extended to 2024)

Total Budget: Rs. 5, 11,600

2024 Budget: Rs. 2,50,289 ($3,128)

The project’s goal is to empower the remote community of Sittilingi Valley by preventing migration and promoting self-reliance. It focuses on training women to use natural materials and hand skills, practicing sustainable techniques, and following fair trade principles.

Over the past two years, 20 women have been trained in craft making as part of this project. They have developed new products that complement existing ones, enhancing the overall output and brand “Porgai.” The training includes hand skills, design, costing, and market exposure. In 2024, training for rope making will continue which began in 2023.

Women have completed quilting three groups of cushion covers. With little input they have come up with the designs themselves. Now that the trainees are into the spree of creativity, there is no barrier to the size of cloth. They have made a 16inx16 art quilt which has opened new doors of confidence that can be reimagined and extrapolated for any other product of varying sizes.

The project experienced delays due to the main trainer and designer’s health setback, causing the timeline to extend.

In March 2024, the organization held a training session on design development to enhance participants’ skills and creativity. The workshop resulted in the creation of new designs, with a focus on butterfly-themed cushion covers. These designs were both aesthetically appealing and featured innovative upcycling techniques. The butterfly designs were inspired by four species found in Sittilingi: Blue Pansy, Common Jezebel, Striped Tiger, and Crimson Rose.  Apart from the cushion covers, the organization created upcycled patch garments, which integrated the thin rope making strategy into each of the newly designed garments. The newly designed products were sold in exhibitions starting from May 2024.

This project has made significant progress in promoting self-reliance in the region. Through the many steps of this journey, the team has demonstrated a commitment to its core values of empowerment, sustainability, and fair trade.

2022 Report   2023 Progress Report  2024 Final Report