Textile And Natural Dyes
Where Tradition meets Modernity: The Revival of Local Crafts
Avani’s textile initiative began in 1997, in an effort to enhance incomes of very poor families who were also traditional artisans. The crafts of hand spinning, hand weaving and natural dyeing were traditionally practised by some of the local communities in this region. Avani’s textile program created contemporary products with traditional skills to provide stable incomes while ensuring the preservation and revival of traditional skills.
Natural Dyeing
The use of natural dyes is traditional to all artisan communities. In Kumaon, this skill has existed in the Shauka community for hundreds of years. However, the easy availability of mass produced and relatively cheap synthetic dyes adversely impacted the market and use of natural dyes.
Fibers and yarns
Working with natural fibres is integral to the approach. In the quest to revive traditional crafts, Avani emphasises the use of indigenous fibres such as Harsil wool that are local to this region and its people.
Lifestyle Products
Nestled in the Kumaon region of the Indian Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, Avani is a community built on the principles of sustainability and local empowerment. Fusing traditional techniques with sustainable technologies, Avani’s talented farmers and artisans produce exquisite, one-of-a-kind textiles, art supplies, and lifestyle products. All of our products are produced using 100% natural materials, including plant-derived dyes, sustainably harvested indigo, and locally-produced silk and wool.