Blue Cotton and Silk Blend Floating Leaf Block Print Shawl, "Floating Leaves"

"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.

"I did my post-graduation 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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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. Joining Novica is a step toward this goal."