This winter, learn the art of crochet from Arunachal's knitter Giapi Nungnu
ITANAGAR:
Crochet is weaving up a storm this winter, from easy-breezy minis, maxi gowns, halter tops to accessories. There are so many ways to incorporate this knitted trend. Crochet not only spells femininity but also handicrafts.
The designs are based on styles unique to different traditional culture with modern processes and style sensibilities of today. Knitted trends are not only a fashion but also boost the self-esteem and entrepreneurial drive of women so they can earn a livelihood.
Giapi Nungnu, hailing from a small town of Daporijo in Arunachal Pradesh, uses her crafts and skills productively; making herself a self-sustained entrepreneur.
The 27-year-old Nungnu has been knitting since her elementary schools, such as bags and other goods. Her passion is to contribute to handcrafted techniques and promote a sustainable lifestyle.
“I learned to knit and crochet after seeing my neighbours. They knit with yarns and make beautiful garments out of it. It obsessed me with the beauty of every piece of their handwork.” Nungnu said.
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As I grew older, the hobby turned into a passion. I knit bags and some other goods and started selling them to my neighbours and friends for a living.
Within no time the demand increased, so I officially started my label as ‘Nungnu crochet and knitting’ (a start-up that sells handmade wool crochet and knitted wear).
“The crochet technique has been there for centuries and ages, it has always been part of the fashion industry. So I think as long as there is innovation in the fashion industry, the art, and skills of crochet will never fade. It will always find its way in the fashion trends,” she added.
With the growing demands and consumption of fast fashion industries, people forget the value and essence of handmade products. It is important to educate our younger one, the importance of handmade over machine-made, in terms of value, climate, and environmental change.
Her biggest dream is to contribute towards women empowerment and to set a good example for aspiring women entrepreneurs who look up to her.
To understand people’s preferences, convincing them to buy handmade while quoting the price of handmade bags over machine-made, were some of the difficulties she had to face in the initial stage.
"But eventually, with time, I see lots of people respecting and understanding the values. It gives me immense joy and I hope that I can go forward when customers show satisfaction with the product they received," she added.
When you're initially starting a business, you have to have patience, she said, adding that it’s a long journey, "and good things always take time so give your 100 per cent."
"I strongly believe that as long as you are determined and honest toward your passion, though, it's a slow process, you will get what you deserve in any field," Nungnu said.
Though machines have taken over the conventional trend, one can still get inspired by the art of knitting, and create a well-composed look with crochet elements to add texture to the overall look.
Whether you're on a vacation or going to the office, pairing a more casual crochet piece with any of your favourite outfits is the perfect way to explore this trend. A handicraft allows women to experiment with skills and to earn on their terms, with their initiative.
