Who we are..
Discover the vibrant textile heritage of South India on a journey through color, craft, and culture. From the intricate silk weaving of Kanchipuram and the bold block prints of Andhra Pradesh to the earthy natural dyes of Tamil Nadu, this tour offers hands-on experiences and exclusive access to artisan communities. Visit traditional looms, learn age-old dyeing techniques, and explore bustling markets filled with handcrafted fabrics.
We are a specialist holiday company that helps you discover the little known and culturally rich region of Southern India. We specialise in escorted small group and customised trips with expert guides in country. After successfully taking small groups around Southern India with a focus on on textile and various textile techniques since 2017, we now offer tailor-made trip for individuals looking for that specialist touch in exploring the variety of textile techniques in India. You will get to experience both traditional and modern textile processes with hands-on workshops and interaction with local artisans. You visit places off the beaten track, learn more about the history of silk from start to finish and of cotton and handloom. The workshops that are usually included are block printing, natural dying, indigo processing, eco-printing, block printing, tie-dye, wax printing, shibori, embroidery, batik and much more. You could choose the one that you are interested and leave the rest to us.
Perfect for textile enthusiasts and culturally curious travelers, this immersive holiday weaves together learning, creativity, and unforgettable local encounters.
Elaine Clark
I was drawn to South India many years ago whilst working with a children’s charity. I taught Textiles for many years, and I chair a Creative Textiles group in Devon. I have dabbled in many aspects of textiles, but my main interest is in block printing and dyes. Our last Indian tour visit opened the door into the world of eco printing. Using plants growing locally, I have been experimenting with various techniques, some more successful than others! With friends, we are trying to grow more dye materials including recently planting eucalyptus in my garden. Over the years, I have brought home numerous blocks from India and use these mainly as a base for embroidery or other forms of embellishment.
An opportunity to combine my passion for Textiles and South Indian culture arose and I have been able to share my experiences with fellow enthusiasts through these tailor made itineraries. Whether you just want to visit with a friend or as part of a small group, you will have the opportunity to experience small traditional workshops, learning skills passed down over generations. People often come on their own but leave with newfound skills and friends.