Chainstitch carpets, rugs and cushion covers from Kashmir, silver and gem stone jewellery from Tibetan refugees, walnut wood boxes, gifts and furniture from artisans in Kashmir, original water-colour paintings by a co-operative from Andhra Pradesh.

Crafts are an integral part of life in India, despite the rapid technological and social changes that are taking place.  In the West, special artists create craft objects and they are considered to be 'luxury' items, but in India (like many other developing countries) it is the main source of employment for a vast majority of the population, second only to agriculture.

Despite the growth of the handicrafts industry in India, the average earnings of the artisan is very low when compared to other industries. This is the reason that the younger generation is moving to other fields.  The average age of many master craftsmen is around 50 years old.

The improvements in education and lifestyle of the middle-classes in India have contributed to the loss of traditional native crafts. The market has been flooded with cheap plastic items and synthetic materials. Peepul Tree is assisting some craftsmen to find markets and benefit from the rewards of fair trade with the West.

Trip to India for more stock

Hi, well things have moved on since the shop re-fit, Mel and Tina have gone over to India for more fantastic, unique gifts and furniture. They will be in Delhi for a week, and then travelling further south ending up in Goa at the end of the trip. 

The fantastic new Bahia Lotus Temple - New Dehli

Delhi is the capital of India, its third largest city, and the industrial hub of northern India. In addition to being the epicenter of power, Delhi is the second most widely used entry point into the country. Built on the banks of the Yamuna river, the city is a beautiful blend of a historical past and a vibrant present.

Vibrant Market in Goa 

Goa, a tiny emerald land on the west coast of India is the 25th State in the Union of States of India. A very striking feature of Goa is the harmonious relationship among various religious communities, who have lived together peacefully for generations. Though a late entrant to the planning process, Goa has emerged as one of the most developed States in India and even achieved the ranking of one of the best states in India with regards to investment environment and infrastructure  of India. (more.....)

Beutiful sunset in Goa 

Store Break In

Unfortunately over christmas the shop was broken into, and around £6000 worth of older Tibetan items, and Jewellery were taken. As much as we were dis-heartned by it, we cant let it get us down, so with added security measures, we're bouncing back.

Please visit our shop if you can, we are situated at Blakemere Craft Centre in Cheshire. We would love to see you!