Gone are the days when most of the women you saw doing crochet or knitting were grandmas in their rocking chairs. Crocheting has now become an obsession with the younger generation too and chances are you would never find a crotchetier, who says she has enough yarn!
This is pretty much the tale of how Viraja and her daughter Archana Acharya took their passion to the next level and set up Knotty Nest, a haven for all things crocheted.
This mother-daughter venture is a hand-made lifestyle and accessories brand . Viraja started crocheting at the tender age of six and has perfected her craft over the years, while Archana is an IT professional. They bring in the element of modernity by creating products that appeal to the younger crowd and those that draw from themes best loved by them. They also take on customised orders for which you can log on to (www.facebook.com/ KnottyNest).
Vijara, who used to crochet “till Archana was born” says bringing up two children took up her time and she stopped this craft.
“In the meanwhile, I learned baking, stuffed-toy making, and fabric painting. So I never really stopped learning. However, it was only when my daughter moved to Bangalore for her higher studies that she motivated me to start my crochet and embroidery work again. She inspired me to create more products. I received support from my family and that helped me turn my passion into a lucrative business. That’s how Knotty Nest was started in May 2012. It has been the best thing my daughter has gifted me with.”
At Knotty Nest, one can order a wide range of lifestyle accessories. “Through our products, we illustrate various cartoon characters. We sell everything from hand-crafted magnets, key chains and bookmarks to hair clips, sling bags, brooches, baby dresses, and earrings. We also make home décor products like canning jar lids and coasters, among other items,” the entrepreneur informs.
The duo enjoy what they do. “It has been a great learning experience so far. We participate in flea markets held in the city and have a good customer base here and in Mangalore. On the flipside, we still need to build a strong and viable market for our products. One of the turning points for us has been that we are now online on Junglee and Indibazaar where we get to showcase our work,” beams Archana .
In the coming days, Viraja informs: “We will be working on creating new and unique products and expanding our product line. We are looking at tying up with retail brands and are also interested in teaching this art to the younger generation.”
This column features those who choose to veer off the beaten track.
