Surviving in Kashmir
The artisan group that makes our new paper mache coasters is located in the city of Srinagar, Kashmir, in the Himalayan valleys of northern India. Joo Handicrafts is a small group that specializes in making paper mache products out of recycled newspaper pieces mixed with glue. This mixture is then crafted into different shapes and forms. The paper mache forms are then hand-painted by the artisans and put into a box made out of wood. This wood is manufactured from dead Deodar trees, a material that is allotted to the artisans by the Indian government.
This region is not farmable because of the climate and topography of the area, so residents must depend on crafts for their livelihood. Traditionally, the area of Kashmir has attracted tourists enough to the point where the artisans could sustain their livelihood by selling to them year-round. However, increased disputes over the land between Pakistan and India have given rise to violence, threatening the safety of tourists and residents alike. Due to this increased violence at the Indian-Pakistan border, this region struggles with access to markets and a decline in tourism.
However, thanks to Fair Trade, these artisans now have access to new markets to sell their artistic products for a fair price and are able to live better lives. SETU-the Bridge To Artisans hopes to keep supporting this group and introduce more of their beautiful creations in the future.
Paper Mache Coasters
These coasters are created with the art of paper mache. They come as a set of 6 coasters. Each coaster has been hand painted with different motifs inspired by the...
Thin Handpainted Bangles
Set of 4 handpainted wood bangles with bright, floral designs.
To know more about the artisans click here
Variations of this product
JHB 107 - Thin Handpainted Bangles - set of...
Handpainted Bangles
Made from a light wood and then beautifully handpainted with intricate designs, these bangle bracelets are fun and spirited. Comes in a set of three with unique patterns and colors.
•Made...
Kashmir Floral Box
These boxes are created with the art of paper mache. Each has been hand-painted with a floral motif. Perfect for home decor or presenting a special, small gift.
This is a...
Alphabet Keychains
Wooden alphabet keychains sold in set of 4 letters. Hand-painted with assorted floral designs
Size: Letters are approx 2" high
Material: Wood, metal
Variations of this product
JMK 110 - ABCD (out of stock)
Snow Ball Ornaments
These Christmas ornaments are created with the art of paper mache. Each has been hand-painted with a Christmas design, including Santa, snowmen, and snowy houses. Come in a printed box....
Christmas Bell Ornaments
These Christmas ornaments are made of a light wood. Each has been hand-painted with a floral motif, and they come in a printed box. Fair Trade your Christmas!
This is a...
Kashmir Box
These boxes are made from a light wood. Each has been hand-painted, and is perfect for home decor or presenting a special, small gift.
This is a Fair Trade product handmade...
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