I worked as a home furnishings buyer and merchandiser for 7 years working with some of the largest names in the business. In 2012, an ankle injury rendered me immobile for 8 weeks. My employers were in urgent need of a replacement and I ended up losing my job. After I spent a few weeks cribbing about my situation, I realized that the only one who could help me was - me! "Winter always turns to Spring"

This was when I decided to channelize my love for textiles, decor and interior styling into a creative outlet through my blog Handmade Talks. Losing my job was probably the second best thing that ever happened to me and I never looked back. I decided to pursue my passion for handmade via my Etsy shop.

I scout the markets of Hyderabad to find gorgeous supplies for all the creative people out there. It has become a medium for me to spread a part of my colorful country and culture. All the supplies in my store are either handmade or vintage.

My precious little boy arrived in November 2014 and has inspired me to create beautiful, luxurious children's bedding. He is the best thing that ever happened to me. I began exploring block printing as a technique for baby bedding. Wood block printing is an age old art wherein a skilled artisan hand carves design motifs into small blocks of wood. The wood blocks are then dipped into color to create beautiful prints on fabric or paper. During my research and chats with block print artisans, I was told that many of these blocks are usually created for a custom design and never used again. As a supporter of sustainability and resource management, I challenged myself to use 'old' existing blocks for my designs instead of designing new ones. I realized that playing with existing patterns and motifs can get tough - there are times when I look at a design and wish that it was slightly larger, more spaced out or simply a two color design instead of one, but that is what keeps me motivated. My quilts are made from the highest quality cotton and will withstand years of use. I hope that these will become heirloom pieces for your home.

From time to time you will also see some wood blocks for sale. These are blocks that were once used to design and decorate fabric but no longer in use. They all have their own little story to tell and can be used to add texture to your home decor.

I also work with a local NGO - that helps economically challenged women find meaningful livelihood. The NGO trains the women to stitch and then provides them employment at centers in their local urban villages. I support these women by working with them for my stitching requirements. In turn further challenging them to bring my design ideas to life with their stitching. I also source my ikat fabrics directly from weaving co-operatives set up by weavers who work on handlooms near Hyderabad.

I support Neuro-diversity in India and hopefully, very soon a part of my sales via Etsy will begin to contribute towards a fund for early intervention therapies in our smaller cities and towns.

I hope you will find something special for your home and for your loved ones at Kari by Kriti!