Why Handmade Matters
In a world obsessed with speed and convenience, handmade feels like a quiet rebellion. It’s a rejection of soulless assembly lines and a nod to the hands that shape something real. Mass production might churn out cheap clothes and gadgets, but it comes at a cost—overworked artisans, fading traditions, and a planet choking on waste. Choosing handmade isn’t just about owning something unique; it’s about voting for a slower, kinder way of living. And this Women’s Day, we’re putting the spotlight on the women who make it possible.
The Impact of Women Artisans in India
Women artisans are the heartbeat of India’s craft heritage. From the delicate chikankari of Lucknow to the bold weaves of Kutch, their work is a living gallery of creativity and history. But talent alone isn’t enough. Without resources, training, or a way to reach buyers, many of these women see their skills go to waste. That’s where our Artisan Incubation (Ai) program steps in. We’re not here to reinvent their craft—we’re here to help it thrive. Here’s how:
✨Design Support: We pair artisans with designers who help them tweak their work for modern homes—like turning a traditional quilt into a trendy throw.
⬆️Scaling Up: We teach them how to produce more without sacrificing quality, so they can take on bigger orders.
🛒Market Access: We bring their products to life online and at exhibitions, putting them in front of people who’ll treasure them.
I’ll never forget meeting Savita, a potter from Madhya Pradesh. She’d been making clay diyas for years, but they rarely sold beyond her village. After joining Ai, she started crafting minimalist planters that flew off the shelves at a city bazaar. She told me it was the first time she felt like her work mattered.
The Story of Ritu Didi
One of the most inspiring stories from our community is that of Ritu Jha Didi, a resident of Sector 122, Noida, originally from Madhubani, Bihar. Less than a year ago, she never imagined herself as a skilled craftswoman. But when she joined us, her life took a beautiful turn.
With no prior work experience, Ritu felt both apprehensive and hopeful. The sewing machine, once an unfamiliar object, became an extension of her creativity. Under the guidance of skilled artisans at Mon Ami, Ritu blossomed into a confident creator.
Ritu’s family consists of her husband, a mechanic, and their two children—a daughter (11) and a son (6). Today, her income from crafting supports her children's education, giving them opportunities she once dreamed of.
Ritu has handcrafted a variety of beautiful items, including coasters, a turtle, a ball cover, a spider, and a bee. Each piece reflects her growing expertise and artistry. But beyond mastering her craft, she has built a supportive network of fellow women artisans, creating an environment where they uplift and inspire one another.
Her journey isn’t just about acquiring skills; it’s about stepping outside her comfort zone, unleashing her potential, and transforming her family’s future.
A Sustainable Future for Women Artisans
Supporting these women isn’t just a feel-good story—it’s a blueprint for a better world. Their livelihoods mean stronger families, living traditions, and a gentler impact on the earth. This Women’s Day, let’s celebrate their power by choosing handmade.
Head to CraftSAQ to shop their collections and become part of their story. Every purchase is a step toward a future where artisans don’t just survive—they shine.
Ritu's story embodies Mon Ami's mission: unleashing potential, building confidence, and enabling families to thrive.