Indian Women's Group Transforms Waste Fabric into Designer Goods Through Upcycling

A women's self-help group in Walwa, Sangli district, will soon receive training in fabric upcycling through VesacIndia's Thread2Trend initiative. The programme turns discarded textiles into designer products while cutting waste and carbon emissions. Vijaykumar Katti, founder of VesacIndia, has praised the group for its creative work so far. The global textile industry produces vast amounts of garment waste, much of which ends up in landfills and adds to greenhouse gas emissions. Thread2Trend tackles this issue by repurposing old clothes into useful items, supporting a circular economy and reducing avoidable carbon output.

VesacIndia will run a training programme for the women’s group, covering modern upcycling techniques, product design and market needs. The group has already made upcycled items, such as denim bags with hand-painted artwork, showcasing traditional Indian styles.

The initiative follows VesacIndia’s R.E.A.C.H. philosophy, linking environmental care with community growth. It also aims to boost the rural economy by creating steady jobs for women, with full support along the production chain. A key goal is to develop designs that can compete internationally by mixing local craft skills with expert technical advice.

Katti highlighted the role of Mumbai-based mentor Jitendra Chavan in guiding the women’s group. He also commended the Sambodhi Bahuuddeshiya Samajik Mahila Vikas Sanstha for its work in turning waste fabric into stylish products. The training will help the group refine its skills and reach wider markets. By turning textile waste into valuable goods, the project cuts emissions and supports local women. The partnership strengthens both environmental efforts and rural livelihoods.