NEPAL KNOTCRAFT CENTRE (NKC)

NEPAL KNOTCRAFT CENTRE (NKC)

Nepal Knotcraft Centre (NKC) is a social enterprise committed to ‘ weaving nature into women’s livelihood’ - changing the lives of women through economic independence using their traditional skills and knowledge. We are the leading manufacturer of unique macramé crafts, recycled wood items and natural fiber products that are inspired by the rich natural and cultural beauty of Nepal. Our products represent a celebration of the immense natural fibers and grasses native to the country. Mrs. Shyam Badan Shrestha, pioneered this venture with two other women by creating simple macramé goods. Today, NKC works with hundreds of women from various regions and women's target groups from socially and economically deprived communities. NKC partners with these women to improve their livelihoods while paying tribute to their cultural significance and value to their crafts and craftsmanship. All our products have a story – for it speaks of the lives of the people behind it and places from where our natural fibers come.

OUR MISSION

RESEARCH AND DESIGN: We are continually researching unique uses for natural plant fibers testing different varieties of plants across Nepal to ensure we make use of the diverse natural products available in Nepal. We base our designs on how to best use natural fiber in our daily lives.

SUSTAINABLE USAGE OF RAW MATERIALS: We use several plant fibers that are collected sustainably and treated with the non-toxic preservatives to ensure the beauty and longevity of all our products. We provide support in plantation, collection and processing to guarantee sustainable supply of raw materials for our products.

PRESERVATION OF INDIGENOUS HERITAGE: NKC believes in the preservation of local weaving culture of Nepal to conserve important traditions while celebrating the indigenous skills and knowledge. All our products are handcrafted in the villages of Nepal and we maintain a close connection to traditional techniques of knotting, weaving and coiling.

CREATING EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: NKC partners with women and marginalized groups across Nepal to create employment opportunities and provide financial independence through training, skill enhancement and providing a market for their products.

ESTABLISHING ENTERPRISES: We believe in promoting collaboration between traditional and contemporary creative skills-based enterprises for trained artisans for growth and expansion of knowledge. We have organized and conducted various trainings across remote regions of Nepal that have helped women build on traditional skills and have guided them in producing marketable products, using the readily available materials in their vicinity.

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: NKC is committed to CSR. We offer educational scholarships to young girls from vulnerable families within the communities we work with. The value of accessing resources and education is an important undertaking for the centre. Technical arrangements such as tools and equipment are supported through the necessary resources and monetary funds are arranged by NKC.