Author(s): Saroj Yadav, Neelam M Rose, Sunita and Pooja Rani

Abstract:
Handicraft is a form of creative art and craft work which involves making of products by one’s own hands. Since time in memorial human beings have been relying on handicrafts for earning their livelihood or pursuing it as a hobby. This creative practice is basically considered conventional as it manifests the traditions deeply embedded in the culture of a region. It also reflects the skills of craftsmen of specific geographic regions who use different tools, techniques and patterns which are unique to a particular cluster to create an object. Handicrafts epitomize centuries of evolutionary tradition and include the products having religious sanctity and cultural significance, like metal ware, pottery, jewellery, needlework, quilting and weaving are the main items which constitute Indian handicraft industry. Forty-five designs developed using traditional durrie motifs were arranged in different styles and three colourways for each selected placement were prepared. Twelve products were developed through screen printing using selected design placements and colourways. The prepared products were assessed by a panel of 30 consumers on different assessment parameters viz. motifs, designs, placements and colourways for their potential marketability. The average weighted mean score of all the developed products ranged from 2.47 to 2.72 indicated that all the developed products were very enthralling and accepted by consumers on different assessment parameters. The cost of cushion cover ranged from Rs 1050/- to 1175/-, cost of sofa back cover Rs 800/- to 925/- and the cost of tote bag Rs 300/- to 310/- which was rated appropriate by all the consumers. It explains the potential and value of research for the development of craft, both as practice and as discipline, and thus for advancing craft as a discipline that is viable and relevant for the future.