Question

There are a number of craft-based professions which are dying out. Pick one of the crafts below. Make a group presentation to the class about the skills required, and the possible reasons for the decline of the craft. Can you think of ways to revive these crafts?

1. Pottery
2. Batik work
3. Dhurri (rug) weaving
4. Carpentry
5. Bamboo weaving
6. Making jute products
7. Handloom

Answer 1

Presentation on Handloom Weaving:

1. Skills Required
   • Physical Stamina: Long hours of sitting and operating the loom require great endurance.
   • Coordination: Expert control over pedals, threads, and shuttles is needed for rhythmic weaving.
   • Design Sense: Ability to mentally visualise and manually execute complex patterns and colour combinations.
2. Reasons for Decline
   • Machine Competition: Power looms produce fabric much faster and cheaper than hand weaving.
   • Low Income: Weavers struggle to earn a decent living due to the slow speed of production.
   • Changing Trends: Consumers increasingly prefer inexpensive, mass-produced clothing over handmade items.
3. Ways to Revive the Craft
   • Direct Sales: Use online platforms to sell directly to customers and avoid middlemen.
   • Government Aid: Provide weavers with subsidies for raw materials and improved access to banking services.
   • Brand Value: Market these products as “sustainable” and “unique” to attract conscious buyers.
   • Skill Training: Organise school workshops to introduce the younger generation to traditional techniques.