KOCHI:Dreamcatchers as an eye-catching décor item has inspired many enthusiasts to make the transition from a mere hobby to a full-scale entrepreneurship. Chaitra Jyothi is one such person whose hobby of making dreamcatchers has turned her into a busy bee.
Chaitra, an employee of a Technopark-based company, is popular for her handmade dreamcatchers. She was charmed by the décor piece when she found one hanging in a car. However, she had a tough time finding one for herself. When she finally got one at Varkala, it was just a localised version, which was a far cry from the original. That was the turning point and she decided to hand-craft dreamcatchers, teaching herself how to make them. She says, “I was keen on making one myself so I got the materials and started off.”
Chaitra says that she found the right kind of raw materials from shops in Chalai. “I initially gave it as gifts to friends. Slowly the demand increased. Now dreamcatchers are being purchased to be given as gifts to clients in offices and for friends. I have even received orders from abroad,” she said. Although these décor items look simple, it takes time to craft one of these. Even the smallest one takes around 2 to 6 hours, she says. “Its an interest for me than a business. I never repeat my designs and all my dreamcatchers differ in colour and pattern.”
Originated among native Americans, a dreamcatcher is a handmade willow hoop, on which is woven a net or web. Beads and feathers are added. It is traditionally used to hang on cradles as protection for babies from evil elements. Chaitra uses paper, beads, feathers and woolen clothes to make colourful dreamcatchers of different sizes. “I also make customised dreamcatchers for which I use different kinds of feathers and embellishments for decoration,” says the techie.
Chaitra gets orders for the dreamcatchers through her facebook page Asphodel Creations.
The dreamcatchers will also be available at the Techie Counter at the upcoming Krishippura outlet on the Technopark campus. Chaitra is not only into making dreamcatchers but also makes handcrafted jewellery.
