OFFERINGS
Our space is conceived based on the principles of Gram Swaraj. We believe every village and locality should be self-reliant on the plural aspects of governance, livelihoods, and production and distribution of resources. The actions and activities at Farmer’s Share are designed in this regard.
Learning Opportunities
We offer short-term and long-term experiential learning opportunities to individuals, organisations, and school and college groups in the following areas.
Hand Spinning
Hand spinning is an ancient technique of twisting together cotton fibers to form yarn that can then be used to create clothing. Till the introduction of machine-powered spinning (mill spun yarn), hand spinning remained a popular handicraft and livelihood for many. The yarn we use at Farmloom is hand spun.
Handloom Weaving
The handspun yarn is woven by hand on a loom, and hence the name handloom. Handloom weaving is the most practised livelihood in the country next only to agriculture. We have set up 5 handlooms at Farmloom in collaboration with Khadi India. We also have a small loom for children to practise and learn weaving on.
Natural Dyeing
The production and use of natural dyes is harmless and eco-friendly. It does not pollute the environment or harm the human body unlike synthetic dyes. The colours are derived from natural sources like plants and minerals. Plant sources include bark, berries, fruits, leaves, flowers, and roots. Farmloom clothes are naturally dyed.
Pottery
We design and create utility-based earthenware. Our focus is on creating products that are slender and lightweight compared to traditional pottery. We incorporate both the potter’s wheel and handbuilding techniques in our terracotta designs. Along with kitchenware, we also create curios, motifs, and garden pots.
Shelter (Building & Architecture)
Our philosophy of shelter is that buildings need not last for more than a generation. This essentially means that we try to incorporate natural materials to the furthest extent in our construction, ensuring that they become one with earth after their lifetime. We also make use of a lot of material that is usually considered waste or scrap in designing the space.
Food
Ensuring a dignified livelihood for farmers, obtaining a fair price for their produce, and enabling least wastage of resources are the principles we are driven by. In this regard, value addition to farm produce is a key focus area. The value-added range of products we make includes sun-dried products, savouries and bakes, infused honey, concentrates, preserves, ferments and brews.
Chembarathi (Hibiscus)
Chembarathi or hibiscus is an area in itself to be explored. The various products we make using chembarathi include hibiscus-tulsi tea, hibiscus sherbath, hibiscus-infused honey, and hibiscus jam. We also use hibiscus for naturally dyeing our Farmloom clothes.
