Craft Revival Program

Craftizen has successfully executed programs for revival of traditional craft clusters through skill enhancement, upgrading equipment & tools, design development and marketing support.

Impact

Design Innovation Lab in Channapatna, Karnataka
Craft Revival & Livelihood Centre in Cheriyal village, Telangana

Product & Design Innovation for Banaras Wooden Toys, Uttar Pradesh

Brand

Kobokai meaning “Child in You”, represents a unique range of crafts including everyday work accessories, stressbusters, games & puzzles that are playful, functional and trendy. The brand is dedicated to empowering artisans and preserving our rich cultural heritage.

Case Study

Design Innovation Lab: Channapatna

Channapatna lacquerware, a craft that traces its origins to the reign of Tipu Sultan in the late 1700s, has earned the town its nickname, "Gombegala Ooru" or "Toy Town of Karnataka." In 2022, Craftizen established a Design Innovation Lab in this historic toy cluster to modernize the craft and ensure its relevance in contemporary markets.

This traditional art form uses various woods such as rubber, pine, teak, and ivory-wood to create a diverse range of wooden products, including toys, puzzles, kitchenware, wall hangings, and decorative pieces.

Objectives

Establish a state-of-the-art facility equipped with machines and tools for sampling and prototyping innovative designs and products

Enhance artisans’ skills to handle inquiries for design-led, customized products

Integrate new techniques and processes with traditional wood and lacquerware, expanding the craft’s potential applications

Upskill women artisans by having a place for them to learn, experiment and practice new skills & techniques

Partners

L&T Technology Services

CSR Donor

Shilpa Trust

On-Ground Partner

Mike Foley of Foley Designs

Design Mentor

This initiative aims to preserve the heritage of Channapatna lacquerware while empowering artisans to adapt to modern market demands, blending tradition with innovation.

Case Study