Name: This project built upon an earlier CRD on the knitting traditions of Lahaul. The students from the department of Fashion Communication, NIFT Kangra, worked with women artisans associated with the Lady of Keylong Federation (comprising approximately 500 SHGs) to test branding and packaging proposals, collect user feedback, and explore ways to strengthen market visibility through communication design intervention. The team conducted participatory design activities, packaging trials, social media awareness sessions, and developed a store design proposal. The project highlighted how thoughtful communication design can support artisans, strengthen craft identity, and improve the presentation and sale of handmade products.
Department: Fashion Communication Department
Category: CRD
Campus : NIFT Kangra

About the project

  • KNITTED SOCKS, LAHAUL
  • Project: Craft Research and Documentation (CRD)
  • Year: 2025
  • Campus: Kangra
  • Department: FC
  • Batch: B.Des. 2023–2027
  • Craft/Cluster: Knitted socks, Lahaul

Faculty mentors: Mr. Siddharth Aredath

Students:

  • Aisha Shamim
  • Anushka Agnihotri
  • Arushi Singh
  • Ayushi Jain
  • Gungun Verma
  • Jiya Vora
  • Naman Kanaujia

The project focused on the traditional craft of hand-knitted socks (GI) practised by women artisans in Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh. Building on the earlier CRD project Churpe, the students from the department of Fashion Communication revisited the Lady of Keylong Federation in 2025 to understand how previously proposed branding and communication interventions could be implemented in practice. The team interacted with artisans, self-help groups, local buyers, tourists, and other stakeholders to gather feedback on the proposed identity, packaging, and communication materials developed through previous interventions.

Through field visits and participatory design activities, the students evaluated the usability, desirability, and feasibility of the proposed packaging system. The feedback revealed a strong need for affordable branding solutions that reflected the cultural identity of Lahaul while remaining practical for artisans. Based on these findings, the team refined the packaging strategy and explored cost-effective alternatives.

The project also included workshops on product photography and social media, helping artisans understand simple methods for presenting and marketing their products online. In addition, students developed a store design proposal aimed at improving the visibility and display of handmade products sold by self-help groups. Overall, the project demonstrated how communication design can contribute to craft preservation, artisan empowerment, and stronger market connections while respecting local culture and traditions.