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Joo Handicrafts: The Paper Mache Group
Surviving in Kashmir
The artisan group that makes our new paper mache coasters is located in the city of Srinagar, Kashmir, in the Himalayan valleys of northern India. Joo Handicrafts is a small group that specializes in making paper mache products out of recycled newspaper pieces mixed with glue. This mixture is then crafted into different shapes and forms. The paper mache forms are then hand-painted by the artisans and put into a box made out of wood. This wood is manufactured from dead Deodar trees, a material that is allotted to the artisans by the Indian government.
This region is not farmable because of the climate and topography of the area, so residents must depend on crafts for their livelihood. Traditionally, the area of Kashmir has attracted tourists enough to the point where the artisans could sustain their livelihood by selling to them year-round. However, increased disputes over the land between Pakistan and India have given rise to violence, threatening the safety of tourists and residents alike. Due to this increased violence at the Indian-Pakistan border, this region struggles with access to markets and a decline in tourism.
However, thanks to Fair Trade, these artisans now have access to new markets to sell their artistic products for a fair price and are able to live better lives. Handmade Expressions hopes to keep supporting this group and introduce more of their beautiful creations in the future.
$ 14.00
$ 10.50
Handpainted Bangles
Made from a light wood and then beautifully handpainted with intricate designs, these bangle bracelets are fun and spirited. Comes in a set of three with unique patterns and colors.
- Made of wood
- 2.75" diameter 1" width
- Min. Order Qty. 2 sets
$ 7.00 - $ 9.75
Snow Ball Ornaments
This is a Fair Trade product handmade by artisans in the Kashmir region of India....
$ 14.00
Paper Mache Coasters
These coasters are created with the art of paper mache. They come as a set of 6 coasters. Each coaster has been hand painted with different motifs inspired by the lives of the artisans. Outer box is made of wood.
This is a Fair Trade product handmade by artisans in...
 Member of the Green Business Network |
 Member of Fair Trade Federation |