AMRAPAALI January 2015 | Page 8

8 Amrapaali / January 2015 NEST’s would gradually work on various other unknown aspects of north-east like crafts, motifs, textiles, bamboo, use local resources wherever possible to create new products. The initial step has been taken by working on the Bihu Collection of notebooks that uses the rich and diverse weaves of Assam. The majestic textiles of Assam include the Muga silk, Tuss silk, Pat silk, Gamucha and a lot more which are an exquisite mix of traditional motifs and colors. These hand bound notebooks are covered with assorted textiles which are mostly made from valuable scrap fabrics combined with different silks. Embroidery enriches the look and the handmade paper inside gives a complete CANDID WITH ARPIT AGARWAL handcrafted feel to it. Almost all the notebooks are unique as the cover design depends on the availability of the scrap. “We started with stationery as it forms a great souvenir and a great gift. It can be picked and used by person of any age. We are trying through our efforts that, when people think of northeast, they think of NEST.” Adds Arpit. The NEST is currently selling through 10 to 12 stores in India in places like Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Noida, Assam and also internationally in London and New Zealand and also online.