Indian Clay Bangle Making

 

A mesmerising watch.

I feel naked without bangles. They are the one accessory I have to wear and on the rare occasions I’ve accidently left my house without wearing any, I’ve gone to the nearest shop and bought some: that’s how bad my addiction is.

This demonstration of clay bangles was filmed in Jaipur. Every single bangle in the set is different but made in the same way by melting and moulding clay and tree gum. The colours are so vivid but the result is very delicate. I bought this set but shortly after, dropped a few on the floor and they broke into small pieces, so if you are going to buy clay bangles wear them and handle them with caution.

The great thing about buying direct from a demonstration is that you’re giving money directly to the maker and with that in mind, because I saw him at work these are currently the most precious bangles I own. I’m so shamed I broke some of them so early on but the ones I still have are very special.

Given a choice I encourage you to shop similarly – why give money to a store when it’s the maker who’s done the work? I know it’s not always possible but it beats buying something quickly from a shop which may not even have been made in the country you’re purchasing it from, even though it’s labelled a ‘handicraft.’

Don’t worry about price either because in actual fact it’s cheaper to buy direct. These clay bangles were a complete bargain!

Have you bought anything from your travels that you watched being made? Share your story in the comments, we’d love to know. 

#Sofacrush: Rajasthani embroidered furniture

Having total #sofacrush. Upholstered with Indian Rajasthani embroidered fabrics (which you normally see in home furnishings like wall-hangings), it’s the kind of two seater that drinking red wine on is most definitely banned. A work of art in every way, it’s a sofa that’s guaranteed to be the focal point of your room, whether you choose to place it in your living room, bedroom or office.

What’s more, it’s not just  interiors eye candy: it’s furniture with a conscious. Made by a company based in Jaipur, they used old recycled embroideries and employ 50 workers (men and women) in fair trade conditions. Workers are provided with medical insurance and free meals and there are environmental measures such as rainwater harvesting, recycling and plans for a company solar power plant. Order yours from Ian Snow, our new favourite online store (£1479.)