Swati Sharma

"I'm from Jaipur in Rajasthan. The city is a hub of handicrafts. My mother is a most creative and enterprising person, hence I grew up appreciating and admiring different textiles and crafts.<br><br>"I did my postgraduate studies at the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design, where I took a course in print design. I loved it! Block prints lend character and identity to any fabric and you can make the textile your own.<br><br>"Subsequently, I attribute my learning to block makers, color masters and printers. I use a variety of fabrics from the handloom to the power loom and even mill-made cloth. Obtaining handwoven fabrics when you need them is challenging. I try to upcycle whatever fabric scraps we generate. I love block printing with discharge dyes, due to their unpredictable and surprising results.<br><br>"My surroundings arouse my creativity. My parents are my source of inspiration. Their early life struggle motivates me to be a better person. Also, my husband's support has been unconditional. He does the photography and catalog shoots for my designs.<br><br>"In my workshop, I work with skilled artisans who are open to trying new things with me and are patient with my designs and imaginative challenges. We respect one another and work as a team. I take advice from them as they have traditional knowledge and experience earned through years of hard work.<br><br>"Since I first started, I have come a long way and I realize that my prints and designs appeal to an international audience. I want to expand my base and reach out to more shoppers through exports. Working with you is a step toward this goal."