SEED looks at giving a proper direction to artisans with inputs related to design, technology, marketing and management so that they can develop innovative new products for the modern market. This project thus helps the target group to change their quality of work and expand their scale of work. Under the project we also motivate youth to pick up some skills and develop their own enterprises, which can be scaled up.The project has been initiated in Surendranagar – an erstwhile princely state with a rich network of artisans and craft. However without technology and design input, there has not been a growth of enterprises and the incomes of the artisans is paltry. We are thus engaging with 300 different artists in the region.

Textiles related

Training in weaving of Cloth for Saris, Stoles, Dress Material, Apparels and Home

furnishing is being given to almost 100 or so women and those who were already doing so are beingtaught better designs that appeal to Indian urban and international markets. They are also taught about different fabrics that can be used like wool and khadi. Three types of weaving has been taught – Tangaliya, pachedi and patola.These are dying crafts, and training more women in these also ensures their resurgence.

Small Enterprise related

Training has been given in making Paper cup, Paper plates, Paper bags and boxes This has also added value in the supply chain for the groups producing the textile goods since they can now directly use the paper bags for their sales.

Craft Related

In this, jewellery makinghas been taught from textile waste like embroidered jewels, patchwork jewels and assembling other waste for making neckpieces.

Manthan’s biggest contribution has been to preserve existing arts and create more artists. It has also upgraded existing arts by using design, technology and market interventions to make the process of production more efficient and in line with global demand. The trained artisans also receive input on presenting their products to market fairs, online platforms and other linkages.