FREESET FABRICS
Freeset Fabrics Began in 2014 under the umbrella of Freeset Global. A few years ago Freeset in Kolkata did some research and learned that a large portion of the women from the red light districts of Kolkata came from the villages in Murshidabad due to the driving force of poverty. In an effort of prevention, Freeset set up a separate enterprise in the village of Sherpur focused on weaving. They began with only 7 women in their first wave of training to now almost 50. Seeing the transformation and the hope Freeset Fabrics brings, there are now over 600 women on the waiting list hoping for employment.
Where are they
Sherpur, Murshidabad, India
What they make
Woven scarves. Freeset Fabrics has future plans to grow beyond scarves to produce fabric for home and fashion accessories.
What makes them unique
Weaving is a a craft renown in India, particularly the handloom. Freeset is incorporating both traditional and modern techniques in their process. Many people are needed in the process of hand looming , this enables them to employ more women. To finish a scarf, it requires at least 10 pairs of hands. Freeset fabrics is looking into adding more value through printing, dyeing, embroidery and sewing techniques. With a growing vision, they are empowering entire communities in Murshidabad.