KHAMIR Craft Resource Centre’s Leather Focal Point is currently working to address the needs of Kachchh’s leather craft artisans in the areas of raw materials, design, work culture cultivation, production and finishing.

Raw Materials

A prime area of concern is sourcing and developing local raw material suppliers. Because tanning is no longer practiced in Kachchh, artisans are completely dependant on outside sources of leather.  Issues including the social stigmas related to tanning must be addressed so artisans can redevelop their traditional skills and gain control over the costing and quality of leather they procure.

Design

The leather product range in Kachchh has evolved from its traditional form to reflect the region’s changing needs.  However, product development has begun to stagnate. Design inputs are needed to diversify products, develop new product applications, and creatively combine leather craft with other regional crafts.

KHAMIR has partnered with designers to identify the core Kachchh leather craft identity so KHAMIR can help lead artisans to explore design possibilities and build design capacities.

Work Culture

There is a need to better develop the Kachchh leather sector’s work culture.  The sector needs support to: develop interdependent work culture between artisans, build critical collective capacity, engage the young generation of artisans, and nurture a spirit of entrepreneurship.

Production and Finishing

To meet current and new market demands, artisans must upgrade their production processes. Kachchh leather artisans require better access to upgraded tools and materials. 
Technical inputs are needed so artisans can improve their construction and finishing techniques. There is great potential for combining regional crafts with leather.

For more information about Kachchh craft traditions,livelihoods,challenges and opportunities, visit our Creative Industries pages or hear craft stories from local artisans.