In an era where machine-made products dominate the market, the intricate hand-weaving process of rug-making, passed down through generations teeters on the brink of extinction. Recognising the urgency of this fading tradition, we at Understorey embark on a journey to revive the fading craft. Our purpose extends beyond preserving heritage; it’s about empowering communities and sustaining livelihoods. By breathing new life into this age-old art form, we create stunning hand-knotted rugs while igniting positive change in the lives of artisans.
Sustaining Livelihoods, Empowering Communities
Traditional crafts in India continue to employ a large number of artisans across the country. In the process of creating a handmade rug, herders, rearers, dyers and weavers are employed, sustaining communities involved in these practices. By providing fair wages, safe working conditions, and skill development opportunities, along with bringing out the quality of the handmade in a world of mass production, we hold immensepotential to empower the people who have practised the craft for generations.
At Understorey, our community has always been integral to who we are and what we are trying to achieve. We ensure that our systems of functioning are designed to feed back into the groups we work with. Our commitment has been underscored by our parent company, SN Kapoor Exports, earning a GoodWeave certification for creating a sustainable ecosystem of ethical luxury.
The Superior Quality of Handmade Rugs
Crafted with unparalleled precision and care, handmade rugs are renowned for their exceptional durability and quality. Each rug features an intricate knotting structure, showcasing unmatched craftsmanship and enduring beauty. Crafted from premium natural fibres like high-quality wool and silk, these rugs have a proven track record of lasting for over a hundred years with proper care. Unlike their machine-made counterparts, the richness of materials and meticulous weaving techniques bestow a unique heirloom quality upon every handmade rug.
At Understorey, each rug is a testament to the artisans’ unrivaled skill and dedication, ensuring they become timeless masterpieces, cherished and passed down through generations.
Owning a Unique Handmade Item in the Modern World
The Way Forward - Integrating Tradition and Innovation
In India’s diverse tapestry of crafts, innovation lights the path forward. These age-old traditions find renewed relevance through modern reinterpretations. Embracing varied textures, finishes, and materials, crafts have the potential to evolve to resonate with contemporary tastes.