ITRHD × Dastkar
Craft & Livelihood Development Programme | Barmer, Rajasthan
About the Project
Supported by the Indian Trust for Rural Heritage and Development (ITRHD) and implemented by Hands On Dastkar Artisan Development LLP, the programme worked with two artisan communities in Barmer to strengthen traditional embroidery and appliqué, and handwoven dhurrie traditions through design intervention, skill development and market-led product development.
The initiative brought together the skills of women embroiderers in Ghoniya and the weaving community of Balau Jati, creating opportunities to explore new design directions while strengthening the economic potential of their existing craft practices. What began as a five-month intervention evolved into an eight-month engagement, allowing for a deeper exchange between artisans and designers.
Crafts & Communities
The programme centred on two distinct craft groups.
Ghoniya, Barmer | Embroidery & Appliqué
Working with women artisans from the Meghwal community, the project celebrated Barmer's rich embroidery vocabulary, including Soof, Pakko, Kharak, Kamira, Abhla Bharat (mirror work), Tant, Kachcha Pakka, Mukka, Sindhi, Huramji, appliqué and patchwork.
Balau Jati, Barmer | Dhurrie Weaving
The project engaged the weaving community led by master weaver Shri Jayruparam, whose knowledge of traditional weaving and material practices forms the foundation of the region's dhurrie-making heritage. The design intervention explored opportunities to strengthen the craft's contemporary relevance and market potential.
Impact
The wider programme engaged nearly 450 artisans, including approximately 200 women, creating opportunities for traditional skills to find new expression and reach contemporary markets. In Ghoniya, embroidery techniques such as Soof and Kharak were translated into kaftans, shrug dresses, palazzo pants, shorts, potli bags, stoles and cushions. In Balau Jati, design engagement with the weaving community opened up possibilities for the dhurrie tradition beyond its established product vocabulary. More than product diversification, the programme created a space for artisans to recognise the possibilities within their own knowledge, strengthen their creative and production capabilities, and connect generations of craft practice with emerging livelihood opportunities.