Our Story
Supporting Rural Women in Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand
Panchachuli Handlooms is an initiative by the Vincular Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to uplifting the weavers of Uttarakhand. Our journey began in 1991 when we witnessed the fading legacy of traditional handwoven textiles and the immense talent of women weavers going unnoticed. In rural Kumaon, most families relied on agriculture, leaving them vulnerable to unpredictable weather and financial instability. Their earnings were barely enough to survive.
Determined to bring change, we set out to provide these skilled artisans with the training, resources, and opportunities they needed to revive Uttarakhands rich weaving heritage. Our first employee, Munni Mehta, went door to door, urging women to turn their craft into a means of livelihood. However, during that time, it was uncommon for women to work outside their homes, making many hesitant to step forward. Yet, with persistence and unwavering belief, a handful of women joined us. Over time, this small group grew into a strong and united community of artisans.
Crafting Excellence with Natural Materials
Our vision was not just to revive handloom weaving but to create something truly exceptional. We committed to using only natural materials, including vegetable dyes, pure cashmere wool, and locally sourced fibres.
To bring this vision to life, our team travelled to the remote mountains of Tibet and Kailash Mansarovar, sourcing raw cashmere directly from nomadic herders. With dedication and training, our women artisans refined their technical and design skills, transforming their heritage craft into luxurious, handcrafted textiles that now reach global markets.
OUR AIM
The primary objective is to promote local handicrafts and artworks that are sybols of the Himalayan cultural heritage. In so doing, we also create sustainable livelihood avenues for the marginalized craft communities who are living in some of the most remote areas of the Himalayas in India. These artisans are at the far end of the supply chain and yet have amazing traditional wisdom and skills. We intend to create a sustainable hub for the handloom products of the state and act as a robust link between primary producers and destined international markets. The aim is to strengthen traditional craft value chains thereby bringing the desired change in society.
OUR STRENGTH
We have well equipped in-house production centers coupled with a dedicated team of highly skilled master craft persons (producers), technical experts (subject matter specialist), and design professionals. together, we design and create fashionable and sustainable textiles and products that meet the needs of our most discerning buyers.
OUR USP
Our aim is to highlight local skills,keep pace with modern fashion trends through our innovative designs and use of modern technology and ensure that we maintain our quality standards at all times. Our emphasis on environmentally friendly and energy-efficient craft practices and our commitment to the upliftment and security of our women-artisans is of paramount importance to us. We pride ourselves on being able to showcase our contemporary heritage products which comes with a distinct human touch.
Our Weaving Process
Centuries of tradition meet sustainable innovation in our carefully crafted products. Each piece tells a story of artisanship passed down through generations.
From Fiber to Fabric
Every product we create undergoes a meticulous seven-step process, combining ancient techniques with sustainable practices. Our commitment to traditional craftsmanship ensures each piece is unique, ethical, and made to last for generations.
Step 1: Wool and Yarn Procurement
We carefully source high-quality natural fibres like pashmina, merino wool, hemp, and bamboo from ethical and sustainable suppliers, ensuring eco-conscious practices from the start.
Step 2: Hand Spinning
Each thread is lovingly spun by hand on local charkha (spinning wheel), preserving traditional techniques while each thread goes through the trained women's fingers.
"Each thread holds the touch of skilled hands that have preserved this art for generations."
Step 3: Dyeing (Natural and Azo-Free)
Our dyeing process uses natural and azo-free dyes that are gentle on the environment and safe for everyone, creating vibrant hues without harmful chemicals.
Step 4: Warping
Then the yarns are meticulously arranged on the warping drum as per the design and colour combination, a process that blends precision and artistry to prepare for weaving. This is where the weft of the product is being prepared.
Step 5: Drafting and Denting
This tedious process involves threading the yarn through the loom's heddles and reed, ensuring even tension and flawless weaving. Each thread is manually inserted into the respective reed which translates the design, structure and construction of the fabric.
Step 6: Weaving
Our weavers finally bring the fabric to life using handlooms, crafting each piece with care and precision while honouring the heritage of Himalayan craftsmanship. We believe in quality and no product is made in rush to ensure we deliver what we promise.
"The rhythmic sound of our looms tells a story that began centuries ago in the Himalayan foothills."
Step 7: Finishing
Every product is completed with a final touch of refinement, ensuring a premium look and feel while maintaining our commitment to sustainability.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
Every step in our process is guided by respect for nature and people. From sourcing ethical materials to using natural dyes, we ensure that our beautiful products don't come at the expense of our planet.
Our Social Impact Initiative
Shaping a Progressive and Tolerant Society
Driven by our company values, we are making continuous advancements towards a cohesive workforce for delivering value to our customers, partners, employees – and fulfilling our responsibility to shape the future of society.
