HANDMADE HEROINES 8 – Silk Thread Jewellery Making workshop

On September 6, 2024, a one-day Silk Thread Jewellery Making workshop was successfully conducted at Sri Ramakrishna Polytechnic College, empowering 17 women and adolescent girls from underserved communities. This training was specifically designed to provide hands-on, income-generating skills that require minimal investment and can be pursued from home. The workshop aimed to nurture creativity, build self-confidence, and introduce entrepreneurship fundamentals through practical skill-building. Participants learned how to craft elegant bangles, earrings, hair accessories, and decorative clips using vibrant silk threads and basic tools. With step-by-step guidance from experienced trainers, each participant was able to complete finished products by the end of the session.

The training highlighted key aspects of the jewellery-making process including material selection, color coordination, product finishing, and festive design planning. In addition to the crafting techniques, participants were introduced to marketing strategies such as pricing, local sales, participation in exhibitions, and leveraging online platforms. The session emphasized the importance of customer preferences and encouraged participants to think creatively while also understanding commercial viability. This beginner-friendly initiative not only introduced a potential livelihood option but also fostered self-reliance among the women. Many participants expressed increased confidence and enthusiasm toward exploring micro-entrepreneurship opportunities.

This program is part of a larger effort to promote sustainable livelihoods for women and youth in slum areas through creative and practical training. Participant feedback highlighted the engaging and productive nature of the workshop, with many eager to pursue advanced training. Overall, the Silk Thread Jewellery Making workshop served as a stepping stone toward self-employment and financial independence, transforming a traditional craft into a meaningful source of income and empowerment.