‘Learn with Nila’ is a quick view resource, meant for craft enthusiasts and entry level practitioners. Created over the lockdown with an intention to initiate DIY techniques using easily available materials as well as an ongoing series introducing traditional craft practices by master artisans themselves.
ECO-PRINTING WITH MARIGOLD, ROSE & HIBISCUS
Learn the craft of eco-printing with flower petals and leaves of Marigold, Rose, and Hibiscus bundled inside handwoven fabrics that are steamed to release the dye found naturally inside the flowers, leaving beautiful impressions of the shape of flower petals.
Enjoy the videos in English and Hindi.
NATURAL DYEING AT HOME WITH TULSI & NEEM
Inspired by the healing and medicinal properties of tulsi and neem, the Nila Studio team has been exploring dyeing with easily available natural ingredients. This is an easy and fun process. Use this tutorial to dye fabrics or old garments that can be stitched into masks.
HAND STITCHING MASKS AT HOME
As we are all getting used to the new ways of being with COVID-19, masks have become an essential part of our lives especially when stepping out of our homes. Learn how to sew your own masks by repurposing old scarves or fabrics. You don’t need to own a sewing machine for this and it’s easy enough to do, with a little patience.
Please be sure to wash your mask after using it outside the home. Stay safe.
MAKING A JUGAAD LOOM & WEAVING AT HOME
weaving / yarn dyeing / jugaad loom / at home experiments
Weaving is a work of mindfulness, of taking time to give attention to the details that will contribute to the woven piece's unity. Learn the process of weaving and making a jugaad loom using basic items like cardboard, ruler, and yarn.
DYEING AT HOME WITH TURMERIC
natural dyes / turmeric / at home experiments
For all of us this lockdown has been about finding new ways to channel our creative energies. Our team members have been exploring various techniques with materials easily available at homes. Dyeing with turmeric is quite an easy and fun process. Here is a step by step guide to help you with you next experiment.
Turmeric (haldi) is a flowering plant that is widely used in cooking in the form of a powder. The beauty of this ubiquitous spice is eloquently captured in a poem by Liilia Talts Morrison.
In the southern soil of India
Thrives a thick, beloved plant
Leaves of gold are tipped with rose hues
And its oil enhances chants
Sometimes called curcuma longa
Its roots promise love and health
Fragrant curries, healing powders
Indian saffron, sign of wealth
Warm and gentle is the fragrance
Earthy subtle undertones
Soon evolving to a sweetness
Therapy for weary bones
Brides are spread with its thick mixture
In the land of Bangladesh
Bodies gleaming golden ochre
Deep red henna hands enmeshed
But like every panacea
This spice has its bitter side
When combined with clove or ginger
Jekyll turns to bleeding Hyde
There are many healing flora
Flourishing in distant fields
Turmeric is one such blessing
In its golden orange yields
In the southern soil of India
Thrives a thick, beloved plant
Leaves of gold are tipped with rose hues
And its oil enhances chants.