How to start a handicraft business in India?

Focus on the Utility-Meets-Art Model 🖼️🏺 A successful handicraft business in India today doesn't just sell art; it sells a functional product with an artistic soul that fits the modern home. 1. Product Niche: Home & Lifestyle: Instead of only selling decorative wall hangings, focus on items people use daily: * Hand-painted or block-printed ceramic mugs/dinnerware. * Hand-woven cushion covers and table runners. * Hand-carved wooden organizers/storage boxes. * Terracotta or natural material lighting fixtures. 2. Sourcing & Artisanal Partnerships: You don't have to be the artisan. Be the Curator and Quality Controller. * Identify a village or community known for a specific, high-quality craft (Gond, Warli, Blue Pottery, etc.). * Partner directly with the artisans, ensuring Fair Trade practices (paying them a fair price and credit for their work). 3. Branding & Storytelling: Your brand must tell the story of the artisan, the material, and the regional origin. Use high-quality visual content (photos/videos) to document the making process. Customers will pay a premium for authenticity. 4. Distribution: Use a mix of: * E-commerce (Your website, Etsy): For national/international reach. * Boutiques/Curated Stores: Sell wholesale to stores that already focus on ethnic/sustainable goods. Consider getting an Udyam Registration for your small business to access various government schemes and benefits designed for MSMEs.