What is a Handicraft?
A handicraft is a product, which is made with the use of hands. It is a work of active imagination, where a craftsman gives vent to his/her thoughts thereby conceiving a unique product. India is a country of diverse traditions, where there is an amalgamation of a number of cultures, values and religions. Our rich heritage is reflected in the handicrafts, which form an intrinsic part of almost all states. States differ in the kinds of handicrafts that they offer, depending on the cultures and traditions of the majority of locals. Bookbinding, sewing, stitching, spinning, weaving, knitting, crocheting, lace making, tatting, puppet making, wall hangings, needlecraft, needlework, art and crafts all fall under the categories of handicrafts.

Indian Handicrafts are an exquisite and spell binding variety. They come in vibrant colors, motifs and designs and thus are a rage in the domestic and international markets alike. The techniques and crafts employed while making these handicrafts are centuries old and have been perfected by the craftsmen over many years. Making handicrafts is a family tradition and the skill is generally passed on from one generation to another.

Handicraft Products

Decorative Items: Handicrafts are popularly used as home decor items. Indian handicraft items are a rage in the country as well as in the international markets, because of their vibrant colors and beautiful and enchanting motives. India is the home of a remarkable variety of traditional crafts. Century old skills continue to produce some of the most artistic and exciting pieces of art, which are admired and collected not only by connoisseurs in India but also around the world. All items are irresistible, be it, leather ware, pottery, metal craft or textiles

Furniture: A variety of hand crafted furniture is available in the market, including, furniture sofa sets, dining tables and chairs, garden chairs, shelves, book-stands... the list is endless. Many varieties of materials like wood, bamboo, metal, cane, etc. are used for making these furniture. The carvings on them makes them a must have for everyone. They make a simple room look ornate and beautiful Jewellery: Artisans from different states use different materials and design to churn out some exquisite pieces of jewellery. Tribal jewellery is also included in handicrafts. Iron, brass, shells, beads, other metals, wood, etc. are used in innovative ways to be used as jewellery Garments: Indian textiles are famous not only in the country, but also all over the world. India is home to the most rich cotton and silk fabrics. Most of the fine yarn are woven in India. Abundant varieties and styles of sarees, the most common Indian dress, exist in the market, with each state contributing something or the other. Indian embroidery has a variety of regional styles like the chikan work, mirror work, phulkari darn work, bead work, jali work and many more to suit all styles and tastes Wall Hangings: A large variety of wall hangings are available in the market, with extremely intricate motifs. There is an incredible range to choose from. They are made in various materials including, jute, coir, cloth, with an even larger variety of works like, thread work, embroidery, patch work, etc. The themes and designs vary from state to state. Pictures of flowers, fruits, gods and goddesses often adorn these wall hangings Marble Handicrafts: Marble is an expensive stone which is used for making various home decor items. Craftsmen require immense expertise and precision to carve on this stone. Various items like elephants, Taj Mahal, Table tops, jewellery boxes, images of gods and goddesses, vases, goblets, candle stands, etc., are the most common items carved out by the craftsmen Paintings: Painting is an age old tradition. Only a skilled pair of hands can beautifully depict a scene from mythological books, or an important world happening or just a moment from mundane everyday life, or something of scenic beauty. A variety of paintings are available in the market, with each one being better than the other Metal Handicrafts: A wide range of metal handicrafts are available in a broad variety of metals including brass, copper, iron, aluminium, etc. Sculptures, animal figures, vases, candle stands are common items made from metals

Other Products Related to Handicrafts

	Brass Candle Holders Metal Wall Hangings Copper Handicrafts Wooden Handicrafts Costume Jewellery Wooden Boxes Wooden Carved Column Decorative Wooden Boxes Handcrafted Wooden Seaters Decorative Flower Vases Hard Wood Cd Racks Antique Statues & Replicas Candle Stands Clay Crafts
Elephant Carvings Hand Knitted Clothes Aluminium Vases Zari Cushion Covers Brass Handicrafts Copper Handicrafts Aluminum Handicrafts Iron Handicrafts Horn Handicrafts Bone Handicrafts Stone Handicrafts Wooden Handicrafts
Marble Handicrafts Glass Handicrafts Beads Handicrafts Handicraft Decorative Accessories Handicraft Dress Materials Handicrafts Lac Necklaces Bags Cases Bangles Imitation Jewellery Puppets Silk Painting Miniature Painting Cotton Painting Marble Painting Gem Stone Painting Paper Painting Cushion Covers Mats Quilts Bed Sheets Bandhejes Indian Sarees Pashmina Shawls.

Handicrafts from Some States

Rajasthan: Colors form the essence at Rajasthan. The state attracts a large number of tourists from world over because of its enchanting and enduring handicrafts. Puppets, carved wood items are among the favorites Andhra Pradesh: It is one of the major craft centers in southern India, with various crafts, including exquisite stones, silk, pearl jewellery and many more Assam: The state is a pioneer in silk craft and is one of the largest craft centers in the north east region Bihar: The state is famous for its carpet development activities Delhi: During the Mughal period, the state was well known for kundan work and meenakari. Delhi is the only state in which the art of meenakari is still alive. The craftsmen here also make items of wood like, trays, tables, boxes using inlay work.

The Handicraft Market Today
Handicrafts are, as said earlier, made using hands...a skilled pair of hands. This skill is not new; it has been passed on from one generation to another. In today's age and time, everything is produced/manufactured using machines. Handicrafts are a refreshing change, as no two items can be the same. They are one of their kind and no two people can have the same piece, there are bound to be differences. This makes them exclusive and give them a designer status. Our government is playing an active role in promoting craftsmen from various states to continue with their family traditions. Almost all states have emporiums, where these craftsmen can exhibit their art, and display it to a vast audience, both local and international. The market for handicrafts is thus a booming one, which promises of being lucrative.