Main centers for Handicraft

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THEWA ART

The art of setting gold on glass is known as Thewa Art. Thewa is a rare and distinct skill of RajasthaniRajsonia of Pratapgarh. Necklace sets,pillboxes,photoframes,pendent,earings are main products.

SANDAL WOOD CARVING

Based on ivory crafts shifted to sandalwood items. Beautiful carved work and wonderful finishing makesd this craft worldwide popular. Gods,Ambabadi,Elephant,Chess pieces and Jewellary items are main product. This craft is practiced in Jaipur and Churu.

TIE & DYE

Bandhani is the local name for the Tie & Dye process. It is a resics technique. Parts of fabric remain UN-dyed because they are covered by “Tied Threads” and knots before dying. Cotton,Silk,Chiffon,Sarees,dress materials and bed covers are made at Jaipur,Churu,Jodhpur and Sikar. Tradition based items are worn on the particular occasions and a particular group of ladies and by no other one. Gents turbans are made in different designs and colours.

TEXTILES HAND BLOCK PRINTING

Various techniques of printing and dying are used in the textiles of Rajasthan. Eco-friendly dye stuffs and chemicals are used. The printings are named on the basis of their practicing towns.

a) Dabu Textiles Hand Block Printing – Dabu is the local name for the racist print process,mud,racist paste is applied by hand,using wooden blocks to seal the fabric from the effect of further treatment. This type of printing is done in Bagru,Baotra and Akola mainly.
b) Bagru – Fabous for its alizarinered,ironblack,oval,beigethecharacteristics of this type of painting. Very often the ground is dyed in indigo blue,green and black.
c) Azrak Print – Traditonally the products were by Sindhi muslims as loongies and headgears, in the indigo blue and aligrine red colours are used.
d) Sanganer – Exclusive and fine printing is in subdued colours were patronized by royalty. It has a large export market tioday. Screen printing fast taking over. However,Sanganer prints for royal use had a

distinctive fineness. Motifs are based on flowers, which were not necessarily native.

TOYS & DOLLS

The Rajasthani toys &dolls,puppets are more popular. They are printed in colours to add to their attractiveness and charm for the children. There attractive dresses make them more charmful. Material in making these items are stuffed cotton,wood and paper machie. Jaipur and Jodhpur are main production centers.

LAC BANGLES & DECORATIVE ITEMS

Lac items are mainly based on tradition like Bangles in different designs, other decorative articles are images of God &Goddesses,KKings& Queens and different kind of birds and animals. These are decorated with glass beeds. Main production center is Jaipur.

KOFTKARI

Koftkari is a craft of silver wire inlay in a iron plate,swordhandle,shields. This craft is now a lesser known one and practiced by a very few craftsman at Jaipur and Ajmer.

MOTHER OF PEARLS

Pieces of sea shells are stucked together around wood to form a mosaic like outer layer. This art is also been done on bone and brass items. The craft is practiced in Jodhpur.

CAMEL HIDE

The art of pure gold and stone colours, on camel leather,vessels is known as camel hide. This craft is practiced at Jodhpur and Bikaner.

EMBROIDERY

Little shiny mirrors and embroidering beautiful skirts,jackets,Wall hangings and cushion covers etc. traditional Rajasthani motifs and heart warmingcolours are blended well in these master pieces. Jaisalmer,Barmer and Jodhpur are the main production centers.

IRON CRAFT

Practiced in Jaisalmer&Tillonia by way of twisting iron wires and cutting the sheets. Main products are animal figures and decorative kitchenware stands and corners. Good potential for exports.

WOOD CARVING

This craft is practiced in Jaisalmer,Barmer,Jodhpur and Jaipur. Finest quality of carving is made on furniture, windows,partitions,beds and sofas. The seasoned wood is used, so these products are quite sturdy and long lasting. Painting on wooden furniture is done at Krishangarh and Ajmer.

LACQUARE WARE

The richly painted lacquered furniture of Rajasthan is an instant crowd puller. The vibrant colours,the shiny gloss and the basic rounded forms of lacquered designing/setting.

JEWELLARY

Rajasthan has a rich culture of kundan (Precious Stone with Emeralds), gold and silver jewellery. Both men &Women worn jewellery. Gem cutting,polishing and setting in Jaipur are renowned the worl wide. The art of Meenakari (Enameling) dates back to early 17th Century. Meenakari is often combined with Gems cutting jewellery. hewa art of Pratapgarh is well guarded secret of Rajasthani families. Thewa art of Pratapgarh is well guarded secret of Rajasthani families.

It consists of delicate gold leaf work embedded into glass or enamel framed with silver or gold. Silver has always been a popular Metal for Jewellery – also in Rajasthan where it is very often combined with village rituals and faith.

TERRACOTA

Look for decorative clay work at the main centers. The terracotta images and voitives of Molela near Udaipur,are made for the tribal and villages. January is its peak season. Beautiful terracotta horses for religious offerings, 2.5 ft. in heaght are made in Jallore,Ahora districts. Terracotta toys of BU(Nagaur District) and Merta are popular articles in local fairs. Pottery is made all over Rajasthan. Centers – Alwar,Bharatpur,Jaipur,Bikaner,Dausa& Kota etc.

LEATHER

Leather products are rich in design and display,highskill,majris or jutties(Leather Shoes) for local needs and some embroidered with silk threads, applique or bead work. Camel hide increasingly popular because it is soft and flexible,embroidered hand bags,coinpurses,belt and pouches, seats and back rest of chairs. Bikaner is known for its beautiful gesso work on camel hide,lampshades,traditional flasks and perfume bottles are painted in bright colours and gold,using a special technique. Membrophonic instruments – Dholak,Tabla etc. are made by the Dabgar community using camel hide. Look for them in almost every major towns. Centers – Jaipur,Ajmer,Bharatpur,SikarSawaimadhopur etc.

PAPER MACIE

The combination of aesthetic with frugality and utility is no where more evident than in simple village life. Decorative shelves and containers of paper mache is highly evolved craft in West Rajasthan. Made out of waste paper and clay, the big containers or kothis are Light and lasting, decorated with pieces of glass paint and relief work. Today paper machine is a commercial craft – marriages,decorations,popsand back drops for Jhankis (Festive Occasions) are made at Jaipur,Bharatpur and Ajmer,Palai (District Tonk) has a unit for making furniture out of PapierMachie.

BLUE ART POTTERY

The Persian art of glazed blue pottery found its way to Jaipur via the Moghul courts. Later the art was revived with the help of Master Craftsman Kripal Singh Shekhawat,who continues to add and design and colours to it. Jaipur,SanganermMahalan and Neota are known for blue pottery. Specially notable are the painted tiles,vases,bowls,soap dishes and door knobs.

METAL CRAFT

Damascening, Lac colouring,Enameling, Engraving, Inlay, punching and casting – all techniques are known and practiced in Rajasthan, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur are the main centers for metal craft.

Swords and shields, essential for rituals, Jaipur, Udaipur and Sirohi are the main centers to damascening in which gold or silver wire is hammered into grooves chiseled out on an iton or steel surface. Koftakari, a lesser work, where silver or gold is simply stuck on the ground. Metal field is a craft at Jaipur, Ajmer and Pushkar.

Jaipur is known for its engraved, laqered or enameled brassware for decorative purposes. Jodhpur is a very big centre for metal craft today mainly for handicrafted iron. Also known for its aluminium shields and trophies.

STONE/MARBLE WORK

Rocks of various hues have provided raw material not only for Rajasthan’s unique architecture but also for the Taj Mehal, Agra and RashtrapatiBhawan at Delhi. The art of Jail or trellis work converts stones into lace. Pillers, Jali work and stone carving for buildings is a living craft in Rajasthan and craftsmen are specially commissioned for work outside. This is also an export item in Jaisalmer. Known for marble idons in many temples in North India, Khazane-Walon-ka-rasta in Jaipur is the centre for this flourishing craft.

Carved marble bowls, vases, plates decorated with meenakari are emerging trend in the market Jaisalmer, Nagaur, Sirohi, Udaipur, Nathdwaraetc.,

India is a land of rich culture and heritage, and its handicrafts are a reflection of this. From the intricate embroidery of the Kashmir shawl to the delicate filigree work of the Hyderabadi bangles, Indian Handicrafts are known for their beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.

India is home to a wide variety of handicrafts, each with its own unique history and tradition. Some of the most popular handicrafts from India include:

Textiles: India is famous for its textiles, which are made from a variety of materials including cotton, silk, and wool. Some of the most popular types of Indian textiles include saris, dhotis, kurtas, and dupattas.
Woodwork: Woodwork is another important handicraft in India. Wood is used to make a variety of items, including furniture, toys, and religious idols. Some of the most famous types of Indian woodwork include the inlay work of Jaipur and the lacquerware of Mysore.
Metalwork: Metalwork is also a popular handicraft in India. Metal is used to make a variety of items, including jewelry, utensils, and weapons. Some of the most famous types of Indian metalwork include the brassware of Moradabad and the silverwork of Jaipur.
Stonework: Stonework is another important handicraft in India. Stone is used to make a variety of items, including sculptures, jewelry, and architectural Elements. Some of the most famous types of Indian stonework include the marble inlay work of Agra and the sandstone carving of Delhi.
Ceramics: Ceramics is another important handicraft in India. Clay is used to make a variety of items, including pottery, tiles, and figurines. Some of the most famous types of Indian ceramics include the blue pottery of Jaipur and the terracotta work of West Bengal.

India’s handicrafts are not only beautiful and well-made, but they also have a deep cultural significance. Many handicrafts are made using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations. These methods are often associated with specific regions or communities, and they help to preserve the unique cultural heritage of India.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Indian handicrafts around the world. This is due in part to the increasing popularity of sustainable and ethical fashion. Handicrafts are often seen as a more sustainable alternative to mass-produced goods, as they are made using traditional methods and materials. They are also often seen as a more ethical choice, as they support the livelihoods of artisans in developing countries.

The growing interest in Indian handicrafts is a positive development. It helps to promote the traditional arts and crafts of India, and it also supports the livelihoods of artisans. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for exploitation in the handicraft trade. It is important to buy handicrafts from reputable sources that ensure that artisans are paid a fair wage and that their working conditions are safe.

If you are interested in buying Indian handicrafts, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to do your research and buy from reputable sources. There are many websites and stores that sell Indian handicrafts, but not all of them are created equal. It is important to make sure that you are buying from a source that supports fair trade and that pays artisans a fair wage.

Second, it is important to be aware of the different types of handicrafts that are available. There are many different types of Indian handicrafts, each with its own unique history and tradition. It is important to choose handicrafts that you are interested in and that will reflect your personal style.

Finally, it is important to take care of your Indian handicrafts. Handicrafts are often made from delicate materials, so it is important to store them properly and to avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or moisture. With proper care, your Indian handicrafts will last for many years to come.

Here are some frequently asked questions and short answers about main centers for handicraft:

What are the main centers for handicraft in the world?

The main centers for handicraft in the world are:

India: India is a country with a rich history and culture, and its handicrafts are some of the most beautiful and unique in the world. Some of the most popular handicrafts from India include:
- Batik: Batik is a type of fabric that is dyed using a wax resist method. The designs on batik fabric are often intricate and beautiful.
- Handicrafts from Kashmir: Kashmir is a region in India that is known for its beautiful handicrafts, such as shawls, carpets, and papier-mÃ¢chÃ© items.
- Handicrafts from Rajasthan: Rajasthan is a state in India that is known for its colorful handicrafts, such as textiles, jewelry, and pottery.
China: China is another country with a rich history and culture, and its handicrafts are also some of the most beautiful and unique in the world. Some of the most popular handicrafts from China include:
- Porcelain: Porcelain is a type of ceramic that is known for its white color and its delicate and intricate designs.
- Silk: Silk is a type of fabric that is made from the cocoons of silkworms. It is known for its softness and its luxurious feel.
- CloisonnÃ©: CloisonnÃ© is a type of enamelwork that is made by filling in metal cells with colored enamel. It is known for its intricate and beautiful designs.
Japan: Japan is a country with a long history of craftsmanship, and its handicrafts are some of the most highly prized in the world. Some of the most popular handicrafts from Japan include:
- Sake: Sake is a type of rice wine that is made in Japan. It is known for its delicate flavor and its smooth finish.
- Kimono: Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment that is made from silk. It is known for its beautiful and intricate designs.
- Origami: Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding. It is known for its intricate and beautiful designs.
Indonesia: Indonesia is a country with a rich culture and history, and its handicrafts are some of the most beautiful and unique in the world. Some of the most popular handicrafts from Indonesia include:
- Batik: Batik is a type of fabric that is dyed using a wax resist method. The designs on batik fabric are often intricate and beautiful.
- Handicrafts from Bali: Bali is an island in Indonesia that is known for its beautiful handicrafts, such as woodcarvings, paintings, and jewelry.
- Handicrafts from Java: Java is the most populous island in Indonesia, and it is known for its beautiful handicrafts, such as batik, wayang puppets, and gamelan music instruments.
What are the benefits of buying handicrafts?

There are many benefits to buying handicrafts, including:

Supporting local artisans: When you buy handicrafts, you are supporting the local artisans who make them. This helps to ensure that these traditional crafts are passed down from generation to generation.
Reducing your environmental impact: Handicrafts are often made from sustainable materials, such as wood, bamboo, and cotton. This means that they have a lower environmental impact than mass-produced goods.
Getting a unique and one-of-a-kind item: Handicrafts are often one-of-a-kind items. This means that you are unlikely to find another item exactly like it. This makes them a great gift for someone special.
Adding a touch of beauty to your home: Handicrafts can add a touch of beauty and uniqueness to your home. They can also be used to decorate your home in a way that reflects your personal style.
Where can I buy handicrafts?

You can buy handicrafts from a variety of places, including:

Handicraft markets: Handicraft markets are a great place to find a wide variety of handicrafts. They are often held in cities and towns around the world.
Online retailers: There are many online retailers that sell handicrafts. This is a convenient way to shop for handicrafts if you do not live near a handicraft market.
Local artisans: You can also buy handicrafts directly from local artisans. This is a great way to support the local economy and to get a unique and one-of-a-kind item.

Which of the following is not a main center for handicraft in India?
(A) Jaipur
(B) Agra
(C) Varanasi
(D) Madurai
Which of the following is not a type of handicraft?
(A) Wood carving
(B) Metalwork
(C) Textiles
(D) Food
Which of the following is not a state in India that is known for its handicrafts?
(A) Rajasthan
(B) Gujarat
(C) Tamil Nadu
(D) Kerala
Which of the following is not a material used in handicrafts?
(A) Wood
(B) Metal
(C) Stone
(D) Paper
Which of the following is not a technique used in handicrafts?
(A) Weaving
(B) Painting
(C) Carving
(D) Cooking
Which of the following is not a tool used in handicrafts?
(A) A hammer
(B) A chisel
(C) A saw
(D) A stove
Which of the following is not a benefit of handicrafts?
(A) They provide EMPLOYMENT.
(B) They preserve traditional skills.
(C) They generate income.
(D) They pollute the Environment.
Which of the following is not a challenge faced by handicrafts?
(A) Competition from mass-produced goods.
(B) Lack of government support.
(C) Lack of skilled workers.
(D) Lack of demand.
Which of the following is not a way to promote handicrafts?
(A) Organize exhibitions.
(B) Offer training programs.
(C) Provide financial assistance.
(D) Ban mass-produced goods.
Which of the following is not a way to preserve handicrafts?
(A) Document traditional techniques.
(B) Create a Database of artisans.
(C) Establish museums.
(D) Encourage people to buy handicrafts.