Yard after yard of material dries in the sun. In India, even in winter, the sun does the work of thousands of tumble driers. It is an efficient way to dry fabric after each round of dyeing and it gives you an opportunity to look over your work to make certain it is perfect.

Each year when we visit we sit on these steps. It has become a tradition after the meeting is over, to take a group photo.  Each year we come a little further. Each year we accomplish a little more. Last year was a break-through year for the weavers. The year before that we were presented with a series of new designs that the leatherworkers had made. 2009, of course, was the year that members of the Artisan's Alliance of Jawaja (AAJ) almost came to Canada for our Symposium.

Each year we see a change in the village. A new coat of paint here, a wall repaired and cleaned up there, everything a little better, more welcoming, more content than it was before. As a group of artisans, both the leatherworkers and the weavers have great determination. It is a determination that is constant, exercised a little each day, and so when we look back over our relationship – five years ago, ten years ago, it fills us with a great sense of satisfaction and confidence. Here are some photos from our recent visit.

We've added most of the Jawaja leatherwork to our online store. Find it here.

Everything is discussed in a large group meeting in the "go down" (Indian name for warehouse).

Jawaja proudly displays their recent work on the walls.

The women are also present, not wanting to miss the excitement.

When we finally prepare to leave there are blessings all around.

We have many ways to wrap-up this winter. Here we feature shawls made from a blend of wild Eri silk and wool. Most silks are reeled. But Eri silk is spun (like cotton), the result is a silk fibre that gives a warm feeling when used in cloth - especially when combined with wool. These shawls are soft and drape beautifully. We love the selvedge (edge) of these shawls. Handwoven in northern India by artisans from the Avani co-operative. Available in the four naturally-dyed colour combinations shown below.

$129.95/139.95 only at the Granville Island Store.

Himalayan Shoulder-Blankets

We have many ways to wrap-up this winter. Today's feature is a handwoven Himalayan shoulder-blanket. Woven by artisans in the Avani co-operative who live very close to the India - Tibet border, these are naturally dyed and made from the local sheep wool. Many of the artisans have migrated to India from Tibet and bring considerable weaving skills. The shoulder-blankets are used throughout the Himalayas, folded and draped over the shoulder when it is warm or wrapped around the body when it is cold. They are substantial, falling somewhere between a shawl and a blanket: 86" x 41" (220 x 104 cm.) They are good for covering your feet on the couch, or for wrapping up when you want to go outside. Who needs a coat? They also give many nice options for layering when combined with a lighter scarf around the neck.

$139.95 only at the Granville Island Store. Available in a variety of colour combinations.