Saharanpur (Wood) Saharanpur is home to some of India’s finest wood carvers who have been creating magic with the material for years. The intricate and fine workmanship that these products are made out off makes them unique, as well their vine-leaf patterns which can only be found in this region – no one else does it like them! Other materials like wrought iron or ceramic are being combined with woods so you’ll see new dimensions come about through contemporary handicrafts while still maintaining tradition at its core The ‘typical’ product range includes decorated furniture (sofa sets, chairs and tables), candle holders screens room dividers tableware bowls trays cooking spatulas bookshelves pen stands children’s toys. Apart from these the craftsmen are trying out newer products everyday to innovate upon existing category boundaries Moradabad (Metal) The ancient art of brassware making has been practiced in India for over thousand years. According to archaeological records, this metal was popular since the third century BC and most gods’ idols were made out off it including those found by archaeologists in Moradabad, which is famous all across world due to the amazing skills when crafting these pieces to such a high standard, using pure shiny yellow/orange tones rather than nigiri type shapes with black accents seen mostly elsewhere Moradabad can be used to create an extensive range of brass products. From idols for worship and flower vases to surahi (round pots) tableware, ash trays Diyas, candle stands locks & fittings and even instruments. Skilled craftsmen of the Moradabad technique are highly sought after, and even create hookahs, antique jewellery, furniture and trophies. Sambhal (Bone And Horn) The art of bone carving is a centuries-old tradition that is still practiced in many parts of the world today. In India, the craft is most commonly found in the cities of Sambhal, Rajasthan, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Lucknow. Camel or buffalo bone is purchased from the market and then skillfully carved into a variety of different shapes and designs. The initial step is to remove the upper layer of the bone, after which it is cut into smaller pieces using a basuli. The pieces are then shaped on a buffing machine before being boiled in hot water and soda for cleaning. Once they are clean, the pieces are dipped in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and kept in the sun for bleaching. The cut pieces are then sticked together with an adhesive, and design patterns are marked using prakar and drill. Artisans do the intricate carving on the bone with the help of fine chisels. Finally, the product is buffed, polished and painted if required. Bone carving is a beautiful art form that takes a great deal of skill and patience to master. Those who are lucky enough to witness this craft being performed are sure to be impressed by its delicate beauty. Artisans in Avadh have a long tradition of creating beautiful and intricate objects from ivory. For centuries, they supplied the royal courts and the Nawabs with everything from sword and dagger hilts to plaques for carriages and howdahs. They also made figures, games, and utilitarian objects like combs, bangles, and mirror frames. Today, bone has replaced ivory, but the artisans continue to create stunning jewellery boxes, pen holders, trinkets, paper knives, scissors, earrings, rings, and cutlery. Their work is highly prized by collectors and provides a glimpse into a rich and fascinating history. Agra (Marble And Other Stone) Amongst various stone crafts, marble is one of the most cherished. Agra, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, has been a centre for marble carving ever since the Taj Mahal was built. In fact, tiny replicas of the Taj are a huge hit with the foreigners who have Agra on the top of their places-to-visit-in-India. The craftsmen of this city particularly specialize in carving delicate jaalis – floral and geometrical. The intricacy of this lattice work speaks volumes about their dedication, patience and fine workmanship. It is so gorgeous that most certainly it will make you skip a beat! Some of these amazing jaalis can also be found in other parts of India, but Agra has always been known for its mastery over this craft. The most common motifs used in Agra carving are flowers, leaves, and animals, but the craftsmen are always experimenting with new designs and materials. In recent years, they have begun combining stone with other materials such as glass and metal to create unique products that combine form and function. Some of the most popular items in their product range include incense stick holders, coasters, statues, trinket boxes, candle-holders, aroma diffusers, miniature Taj replicas, vases, table tops, and lamps. These products are very popular with both local and international customers, and the city’s thriving tourism industry has helped to boost sales. Kashmir (Papier Mache) Papier mache is a type of art that has been around for centuries. It was first brought to Kashmir from Persia in the 14th century, and since then it has become very popular with Indian artisans. These artisans use the eclectic nature of papier mache forms to infuse them with vibrant colours and delicate floral motifs. Sakhtsazi and Naqashi are two processes in Papier mache. Sakhtsazi is the process of moulding paper pulp into the desired form. Naqashi is the process of taking this raw form called kalib, and painting it with natural colors. What follows is individually created unique pieces and each one tells its own special story. Papier mache is a beautiful and timeless art form that is sure to continue captivating audiences for many years to come.