Behind the Scenes: Meet the Makers of Plarn Bags

At Shilpkaar, our plarn bags are more than eco-friendly products; they represent the heart and soul of the artisans who create them. Today, we invite you to step behind the scenes and meet the remarkable individuals whose craftsmanship and dedication bring these unique bags to life. Let’s dive into their stories and the profound impact of supporting fair trade practices.

The Artisans Behind Shilpkaar's Plarn Bags

To address the challenges of sustainability and craftsmanship, we conducted extensive research and discovered the concept of plarn, a plastic-based yarn, to create trendy and sustainable plarn bags. Collaborating with National Institute of Design (NID) students, we developed initial designs and prototypes.

To further enhance our designs, we partnered with Khamir, an esteemed NGO in Bhuj working with Gujarat's government. Through this collaboration, we had the privilege of working with Rajiben, an exceptional artist. She became the first beneficiary of the project, and with dedicated effort, the final prototype was completed in January 2021.

Rajiben and her 20 women artisans work closely with us, crafting each bag with utmost care and skill. These artisans, often hailing from rural areas, have honed their skills through years of practice and a deep-seated love for their craft.

Stories of Craftsmanship and Dedication

Creating plarn bags is a labor of love. The process starts with collecting used plastic bags, which are then meticulously cleaned and cut into strips to create plarn. This plarn is woven into unique bags, each with its own story. 

Things took a positive turn when Shilpkaar partnered with Srujna, an organization that shared our passion for empowering women artisans. This partnership not only added 50 more beneficiaries to the team but also lowered the cost of production by 10%. By ordering plarn sheets in bulk and conducting the stitching process at the Srujna Centre in Mumbai, Shilpkaar took cost-cutting measures, optimized the production process, and made it more efficient and economical.

The Impact of Supporting Fair Trade Practices

Fair trade is not just a label for us; it’s a lifeline for our artisans. By purchasing our plarn bags, you’re ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for growth. This support empowers our artisans to thrive, both personally and professionally.

Prathiba Tai, a senior artisan, reflects on her journey: "Before Shilpkaar, making ends meet was a constant struggle. Fair trade has provided me with stability and the chance to dream bigger. I’ve been able to send my children to school and invest in better tools for my work."

The impact of fair trade extends beyond financial stability. It fosters a sense of dignity and pride. "Knowing that people around the world value our work means everything," Geeta says, tears of gratitude welling up in her eyes. "It's more than just a transaction; it's a connection."

Conclusion

At Shilpkaar, our plarn bags are crafted with love, skill, and a commitment to a sustainable future. By supporting fair trade practices, you’re not just buying a product; you’re becoming part of a story that champions human dignity and environmental responsibility. We invite you to explore our collection of plarn bags and celebrate the incredible artisans behind them.

Thank you for supporting Shilpkaar and helping us make a difference, one plarn bag at a time.