“It’s the magic of seeing the paper come out of the tray, patterned in different colours, which is always a surprise,” says Jyoti Yadav, of Pondicherry-based Lakshmi Kraft, about the marbling process. She should know. Her enterprise has been working on handmade paper for over 24 years now.

Women artisans working on handmade paper for marbled products.

In the beginning, Jyoti started working with pressed flowers, and soon expanded to marbled paper. What started off as a way to explore her creative side after her wedding and move to Pondicherry, soon transformed into a sustainable business.

Marbling, which dates back to the 15^th century, is a fascinating yet simple art form that involves floating pigments or dyes on water, which are then carefully transferred onto paper, creating mesmerizing, swirling patterns. What makes marbling so special is that no two sheets are ever the same.

Apart from marbling, the enterprise also works on other products such as handmade paper lampshades with printed art.

Jyoti says the business is a great way for her to give back, as she is also able to provide flexible employment to women. Women like Lakshmi, 36, who says she was able to put her daughter through school because of the enterprise. “I love coming here,” says Lakshmi, “It’s like a home for me.”

Jyoti’s sons are now involved in the enterprise, trying out innovative products in association with Club Artizen.