Source: IndusTree Crafts Foundation

The pressure of constantly trying to widen the horizon of jute should not necessarily be a process wherein product lines are being forced onto the material. It is essential to look at the material realistically, recognize its capacity and then proceed.

In recognition of the true nature of jute the most essential feature is that it is a natural fibre, and it is inexpensive. This is a factor not to be under estimated and has contributed enormously to the growth of this industry. From the market point of view the international market has received jute so positively over the last few years because of the intensive development in production that has occurred which keeps the price down. One classic example is the jute promotional bag we see at all international fairs at fifty cents or one dollar, having roaring business. This is because the development of prints on basic jute fabric is tremendous, allowing for new designs every season at a low price. Here we see that the use of the more complicated weaves of readymade jute fabric are not much used obviously because the price must be higher and this makes it very difficult to be absorbed by the market.

It would be interesting to see the break up of the figures of the jute industry in India.

A) What is the proportion of sale of conventional jute areas?

1. Hessian fibre
2. Yarns, twines, ropes for horticulture, floriculture, carpet industry
3. Packaging

B) Jute products

1. Gift bags promotional items,
2. Home products- soft luggage, blankets, furnishings, floor coverings
3. Fashion accessories, garments

And what is the market growth potential of each of these areas. Accordingly design development should be focused in the required areas.

The natural aspect of jute is not to be under estimated. We can be sure that this is also one of the prime reasons for its success. It would look like a sensible option to enhance the natural nature of jute by combining it with other natural materials. This seems to be the reason why I am making a presentation of our work with natural materials. This includes materials such as

Banana bark Banana fibre Sisal Sea grass Pineapple fibre Corn husk rope Water hyacinth Palm leaf

Coconut palm leaf Screwpine Gongura Reeds & grasses Bamboo Cane Coir Rattan