From time immemorial, Indian handicrafts have been in huge demand across the world. From the Portuguese, French and the Britishers, to modern-day tourists, no foreigner visiting India has left without loading their bags with the finest luxury handicrafts.
From jewellery to textiles, furniture to pottery, Indian handicrafts are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, artistry and attention to detail. Made by talented artisans, luxury handicrafts are one-of-a-kind items that are the collector’s pride.
If this is your first time exploring the huge world of Indian luxury handicrafts, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we list out the top Indian handicraft items that are a must-buy!
1. Handwoven Carpets
Carpet weaving is an important occupation in North India, especially in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Bidhoi in Uttar Pradesh is home to thousands of carpet weaving factories and is one of the biggest carpet hubs in all of Asia. The carpets are handwoven by talented artisans who have been practicing the art for decades.
What to buy? Luxury carpets and rugs.
2. Blue Pottery, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Widely recognised as a traditional craft, the blue pottery from Rajasthan is well-known for its signature white and blue colour and intricate designs. Surprisingly, blue pottery doesn’t use regular clay. Instead, the potters mix powdered glass, fuller’s earth (multani mitti), quartz powder, gum, borax and water to prepare the dough.
The dough is then flattened using traditional rolling pins called thepai. For larger items, the dried dough is joined together and using water and more dough. Once the dough has dried, the beautiful designs are hand-painted by expert artisans and fired to perfection.
What to buy? There are a variety of blue pottery items including jugs, mugs, dinner plates, cabinet knobs, lamps, paper weights, incense holders, trays, flower vases and more.
3. Papier Mache
The art of papier mache is like magic. It’s reusing old paper to create beautiful everyday items that can be used for a long time. The process involves making a pulp of discarded paper. The pulp is then mixed with straw, cloth and copper sulphate. This pulp is then used to make beautiful home decor items like coaster sets, vases, table lamps, using moulds.
What to buy? Papier mache coaster sets, lampshades.
4. Block Printing
The technique of block printing designs on fabric dates back to the 17th century. Sheesham wooden blocks are carved with unique designs. These wooden blocks are then dipped into the dye and placed on the fabric to create the final design. Multiple blocks are used to form a single pattern. For block printing, the fabrics are soaked in a solution of bleach and water for 1 to 2 days, so that they can receive the natural dyes easily.
What to buy? Block printed dresses, block printed kurtas, block printed shawls and more.
5. Aari Embroidery
This is one of the most exquisite thread work art ever! Tracing its origin to the 12th century, Aari work is created using a special needle called “Aari” hook. Watching artisans create the design using the Aari needle is so mesmerising.
The artisan holds the hook on the top side, and pushes the thread from underneath the cloth. As the hook works its way through the material, it catches the thread, and creates the design. Embellished with colourful stones, aari work is the most brilliant sequin design you’ll see.
What to buy? Blouses, sarees, kurtas, and shawls.
6. Pashmina Shawls
Pashmina is a fine cashmere wool from the Kashmir valley. The entire process right from weaving to finishing the shawl is done by hand, making it one of the premium luxury handicrafts in India. The majority of Pashmina shawls are made in the old district of Srinagar, which is a major handicraft hub.
Can you believe that it takes around 180 hours to create a single Pashmina shawl from start to finish? Available in beautiful designs and colours, Pashmina shawls are worth the investment. They are a keepsake that you can pass on to your future generations.
What to buy? Shawls
7. Jute Crafts
Jute is another natural material just like cotton. Made with natural jute fibres, these are fine pieces of art that you can use daily. The best part – jute is an eco-friendly material, making it a great gift for friends and family back at home.
What to buy? Jute bags, footwear, jewellery, notebooks, etc.
8. Kilim Art
Kilim art is a traditional method of weaving hand-knotted rugs. This art form has been around for millennia. High-quality yarns of cotton, jute or wool are handwoven by expert artisans to create beautiful rugs.
What to buy? Luxury rugs and carpets.
9. Brass Art
Brass is a metal that is known for its durability. In India, brass is used in a variety of handicrafts to create aesthetical home decor items. Even today, the artisans who create brass items are known as Kansaris and are present in the state of Rajasthan.
What to buy? Perforated lamps, flower vases, ornament boxes, table tops, wine glasses and more.
10. Zardozi
Zardozi embroidery is made using golden and silver threads and studded with semi-precious stones. The intricate designs are created on rich fabrics like silk, velvet and tissue.
What to buy? Hand embroidered coats, women’s kurtas and more.
The world of Indian handicrafts is so vast and expense. Hope this list gives you an idea of how to get started. To shop for the best luxury handicrafts in India, reach out Decor Luxury Handicraft Art, the no.1 hand crafted arts manufacturing in India.
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