“`html
Usher in the Season with These Eco-Friendly Christmas Decorations
As the holiday season approaches, many begin to decorate their homes with festive ornaments and decorations. However, there is no denying that while tinsel and thermocol look visually appealing, the planet could benefit significantly from a conscious reduction of these materials. This season, consider embracing sustainability with home decor items that not only elevate your festive spirit but also serve as excellent gifting options for family and friends.
Recycle, Refresh
Christmas Decor from Abira
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Founded by Priyanka Khandelwal, Abira translates to “brave” in Hindi and reflects the resilience of women in urban slum areas of Bengaluru and Pune who craft these beautiful Christmas decorations. Priyanka notes, “All our Christmas decorations are made by them, and for most of these women, this is their first job. We ensure that the fabrics we use are sourced from garment cutting units, where about 15% of fabric is typically wasted during manufacturing. We take advantage of this waste to curate our unique collections.”
Priyanka further explains that they utilize scraps donated by larger brands, allowing them to produce more diverse pieces in various styles. “The wood used in our products is medium-density fiberboard (MDF), made from compressed wood and sawdust collected from discarded materials at interior design firms,” she elaborates.
For more information and to browse their holiday offerings, visit whebyabira.com.
Twines that Bind
Christmas Decor from GreenKraft
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Established in 2012, GreenKraft made headlines last year with the introduction of their eco-friendly Christmas collectibles through their e-commerce platform. Initially known for marketing bamboo products, the company has since expanded into crafting exquisite items from banana fiber as well.
Sangita Banerjee, the senior lead merchandiser at GreenKraft, shares insights into their craftsmanship: “Our products are crafted with the basic structure evolving from mats composed of slivers of bamboo reed. Our in-house team is dedicated to researching and developing festive collections that resonate with each season.”
To support the local economy, GreenKraft employs rural women for the assembly of their products — bamboo items are sourced from Karnataka, while banana fiber decorations come from Tamil Nadu. This initiative not only supports artisans but also provides additional income opportunities for women in regions where jobs are scarce.
Find out more at greenkraft.co.in.
Waste Not, Wreath Knot
Christmas Decor from Diya Innovations
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Among the charming products available at Diya Innovations is a lush green wreath that serves as a versatile decoration, seamlessly adapting to almost any Christmas theme. Founder Suman John recounts the origin story, stating, “A few years ago, we received a donation of over a lakh pamphlets left over from a political rally. My Head of Production creatively designed a wreath using paper folded into fans and strung together with wire.”
Importantly, the creation of these wreaths also provides meaningful work for individuals with autism or intellectual disabilities. Suman explains, “Though the task may appear monotonous, for those involved, the repetitive motions can be soothing, and completing such tasks instills a sense of accomplishment.”
This year, Diya has introduced delightful cloth ornaments that also serve as room fresheners. “Using leftover scraps of fabric from the bags we produce, we hand-print them with playful candy stripes and fill them with potpourri, creating charming tree ornaments. Additionally, we’ve added Santa-themed ornaments, complete with playful moustaches crafted from recycled pine wood.”
Follow their journey on Instagram @diyainnovations2013 for updates.
Little Lights
Christmas Decor from Hand Art Treasures
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
It was during one memorable Christmas season that Tahmina Yacoob first discovered her talent for creating handmade decorations. After cutting and folding some Auroville paper into a whimsical lampshade, she found that everyone who visited her home was enchanted by the unique lighting. “That positive response inspired me to start making these pieces in late 2016,” Tahmina shares.
Initially, she worked with handmade paper she had collected over the years, admiring its texture. Today, she carefully alternates between colorful and plain papers sourced from a local paper-cutter, utilizing remnants left over from wedding invitations and office stationery.
In a bid to promote community engagement, three years ago, Tahmina began collaborating with a group of women from Whitefield seeking additional income. “I take care of all the cutwork and flower designs, while they assist with the assembly of lights, creating a community-driven production process,” she explains.
To view her festive lights collection, explore @handarttreasures on Instagram.
“`
