Upcycled sari clutch with kantha stitch

This chic handmade clutch is great for carrying a few essentials like your phone, cards and keys. It's sophisticated enough to use on an evening out, paired with an ornate sari or with jeans.

Each soft clutch is made from reclaimed sari cloth and lined with cotton, with an interior divider creating two separate compartments - perfect for keeping your bits and bobs organised. Handcrafted by talented artisans in India, these chic clutches can be used solo or can easily fit into any handbag, rucksack, or carry-on bag.

Kantha is an ancient form of hand-stitch embroidery originating in India. The word kantha means “rags” in Sanskrit, reflecting a tradition of using discarded clothing or garments to remake old cloth into bed coverings and other household items. Kantha also refers to the unique running stitch itself, which gives the cloth the wrinkly appearance that is characteristic of kantha.

Lovingly handmade by talented artisan women in Bangladesh.

PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Dimensions: Approximately 25 cm L x 20 cm H (10in L x 8 in H)
- Materials: Outer layers are made from repurposed sari fabric, and the inner lining is cotton
- Features Closure: Zipper close, 2 interior compartments separated by a divider
- Care: Gently hand wash in cold water. Hang or lay flat to air dry.

By purchasing this item, you are helping to empower and provide ongoing employment income for the women who make these handmade products. The demand for Shakti.ism’s products provides these women with dignified employment, a living wage, hope and opportunities for their children. Together we can provide alternative options for disadvantaged women with the aim to lift them out of poverty and help them to become self-sustaining and independent.

Source: Shakti.ism

Shakti.ism is a British brand that gives Indian Sarees a second life by reusing them into beautiful new items in social workshops in India and Bangladesh.

Fair trade: Shakti.ism is a social enterprise operating in India and Bangladesh. Employees are paid a fair wage as well as additional health and wellness benefits. Shakti.ism regularly visits the locations and consults with their employees.

Environmentally friendly: The items are made from old Indian Sarees that are given a second life by Shakti.ism. For example, many sarees are donated. Local donations are generally from poorer people who donate sarees in exchange for other necessities of life. Or they sell it to Shakti.ism at a low price so that they can use this money to buy basic necessities. Shakti.ism can then save the second-hand fabric from being thrown away and reuse it. Saris can also be donated in Europe so that they can be reused.

Good cause: Shakti.ism works with women who are at risk of being affected by gender-based violence. At Shaktiism these women are given the opportunity to earn their own money fairly in a pleasant environment.