Shuttles & Needles, an Adyar based contemporary weaving studio, organised ‘Weaving Mela ’23’, on July 22, at their premises, celebrating National Handloom Day (Aug.7). The theme of the event was ‘Weaving is joyful’.
The participants were urbanites from different walks of life and professionals who have taken up hand weaving as a creative lifestyle pursuit. Driven by a passion to weave with hands and create something, about 25 urbanites in different age groups from children of about 8 years to elders of about 70 years gathered at Shuttles & Needles studio for a 3-hour session of weaving on different kinds of modern looms and making some interesting products.
The purpose of the event was to showcase the creative aspects of hand weaving, promote working with hands and spread awareness about our great Indian handloom culture.
Speaking on the occasion, Naresh Ramasubramaniam, Managing Director of Shuttles & Needles said that weaving is not just a craft, it is a very interesting creative activity for everyone. He added, “Being repetitive in nature, it is very meditative as well, bringing joy and emotional well-being. The traditional artisanal looms require skill and time to learn the art of weaving, however, with modern small home looms, people are able to weave simple products like scarves, cushion covers, table runners, bags, etc. In the process, we also start understanding and appreciating the nuances of handwoven products and our great Indian handloom heritage. Usually, these modern handweavers weave either for their personal use or for gifting to near and dear ones. What better than a hand-made gift?”
He also said that weaving helps children gain analytical and problem-solving skills and that a few city schools have implemented hand weaving programs successfully as part of their activities.
Shuttles & Needles conducts workshops to teach weaving, and sells modern handlooms. Ph: 98402 39140. Website: www.shuttlesandneedles.com
