Mary Gracy
Mary brought years of tailoring experience to aikyam but little confidence in herself as a teacher. Today she trains community members in stitching and bag-making, turning waste cloth saved from landfills into tote bags and pouches.
What Mary Gracy did here
Guided line practice for Kantha stitch precision
Today, the work focused on stitch accuracy and even spacing in Kantha hand embroidery. The artisans moved from small scrap pieces to one larger fabric panel. Trainers drew guided parallel lines on the fabric to train the eye for even spacing. The lines marked the stitch length and gap distance. Working along the measured lines helped the artisans build a steady rhythm and control. The structure made the stitches even, creating a cleaner, more even look across the panel.
Method testing in Kantha stitching: finding the perfect thread and spacing
Today, the artisans at the stitching unit began crafting a new piece using selected and washed fabric pieces. During the process, questions arose about how far apart to place stitches and how thick the thread should be for Kantha work. To eliminate guesswork and establish a clear quality benchmark, the team decided to compare four techniques in a structured test. Each artisan took on a specific variation. One tested closely spaced stitches with thinner thread. Another maintained small, uniform gaps using the full thread. A third tested three-strand thread layers for a bolder look. A fourth variation was set up for full comparison. With the test panels partially completed, the team paused for the day and plans to finish them tomorrow. The team will compare stitch neatness and overall finish to settle the standard Kantha stitching method.
Reflecting on progress: a clean workspace brings pride and precision to Kantha craft
The stitching room felt bright and open today. The team cleaned and reorganized it yesterday. This gave the space a fresh, positive feel. It set an upbeat, focused tone for the afternoon. The artisans started practicing Kantha stitching. They worked on two to three new patterns. Their hard work showed. Every stitch came out neater, tighter, and more precise. They stored each sample in their own portfolio file. The best moment came when the team took out their earliest trials. They placed them next to today's work. Seeing the progress filled the room with pride and joy. They realized how far patience and steady practice had brought them. This gave everyone a strong boost of confidence in their skills.
Show all 99 sessions
Saturday's crochet session taught 21 children a new skill. A facilitator from aikyam's stitching unit led the group. We split the children into three groups of about seven. Each child received a crochet hook and colourful yarn. Some of the boys hesitated at first and said they did not want to try crochet. Once they had the materials, their interest grew quickly. Most children concentrated and tried to understand the movements. Supporting everyone with one crochet facilitator was challenging. She explained the technique to one table at a time, so some children had to wait. A few children already knew how to crochet, so we encouraged them to help someone else. They showed the movements, encouraging and patiently supporting their friends. A practical challenge became peer learning, cooperation and children sharing skills. Our main learning was that an activity like crochet needs a clear whole-group demonstration at the start. Next time, we would first show the basic movement where everyone can see it before moving into smaller-group and one-on-one support. We would also identify children with previous experience earlier and pair them with those needing extra help. Initial hesitation soon turned into concentration, conversation and shared learning. The session reminded us that people in the community already have skills to share. Children can learn from adults and from one another.
Techniques for balancing puzzle pieces
During the Kantha workshop, the team faced challenges aligning puzzle pieces. They tried black and white contrasts and dark and light shades to balance the layout. Once the layout was final, participants developed technical precision. They ironed the fabrics and cut them into pieces measuring 4.5 centimetres. Then they sorted the pieces by colour palette.
Stitching team plans how to share production work
Shabana met with the stitching team to go over the new designs and current orders. Members also shared the problems they had with different tasks. The main challenge was managing time and co-ordinating duties at once. We divided responsibilities across the team, from sorting cut pieces to stitching the final products, including ironing fabric.
Stitching team balances new designs with current orders
The stitching team learned to fill current orders and still practise new bag designs. This showed members how to keep regular production going while they learned to make new products.
Stitching team starts another 50-bag order for FOSS United
The stitching team started work on another order of 50 bags for FOSS United. The team is preparing the bags for an upcoming festival in Bengaluru. This gives the team another chance to work together. They will focus on production, quality, and on-time delivery.
Stitching team plans to focus on two bag designs
We tried several designs and collected feedback. We now plan to focus on two bags. Mary is working on the next round of samples to improve every detail: material, stitching, comfort, strength and finishing, before we finalise the designs.
Stitching faculty prepares a new cut-piece bag sample
The stitching faculty member Mary Gracy worked on a new cut-piece bag sample to introduce another model to the students. When the sample is ready, the faculty will use it in class to show the design step by step. The sample will also help students practise the new pattern.
Stitching team reviews designs, stock and upcoming stalls
We met as the stitching team to look at the current bag designs and change a few of them. We also decided on the lowest number we needed in stock for regular sales. We also talked about upcoming events and stalls. We covered what we needed to make and how much money we needed to prepare and sell the products.
A new student starts learning the sewing machine
A new student joined the Stitching Club. She is learning to use the sewing machine with Mary Gracy. The session starts with the basics. It helps her understand the machine and build confidence. Then she moves on to stitching practice.
Getting five bag designs ready for regular stock
The stitching team practised five bag designs. They improved the finishing on each one before regular production started. We planned to keep a minimum stock of these designs every month. That way we were ready for new orders and sales opportunities.
Tote and duffle bags placed at Local Sustainable Living
On March 14, 2024, the stitching team put their cut-piece tote bags and duffle bags at Local Sustainable Living. We wanted to see how people reacted to them. If enough people buy the bags, we will make more.
Onam event: stitching team starts five bag designs
The stitching team worked on five new bag designs for the upcoming Onam event by Local Sustainable Living. The team made the bags with handloom fabric and fabric cut pieces.
Bag collection grows through member sessions
Members worked together to create a range of unique bag designs. Each session helped improve the collection for future sales. The collection for sale kept growing.
Stitching team develops ten new bag designs for sale
The stitching team is working together to develop 10 unique bag designs that they can introduce to the market. They aim to create products that are practical, well-finished, and made from sustainable materials.
Stitching techniques refined while new designs took shape
The team continued refining its stitching techniques while exploring new product designs.
The stitching lab moved upstairs to a bigger room
We moved the stitching team upstairs to a larger room on March 14, 2024. The new space gives us more room for sorting materials and teaching. More people can join the sessions and work comfortably. The move helped us prepare for future growth.
Stitching team discusses move to a larger room
We discussed moving the stitching team to a larger room. More community members are joining the programme. The extra space will help us organise materials better. It will also make the place where people learn and make things more comfortable.
Stitching team keeps practicing new designs
The stitching team kept practicing new designs and improving their skills through regular hands-on sessions.
New product ideas tested at the stitching table
Members spent the session testing new product ideas and refining their stitching skills with each attempt.
Patterns tested for turning leftover fabric into products
We tested patterns for turning leftover fabric into useful products. The new product designs came from fabric cut pieces. Our stitching skills improved too.
Members visited boutiques for better fabric scraps
At the March 14 stitching session, we visited local boutiques to collect better-quality fabric scraps for future products. We also tested new travel bag designs during the session. We used the time to try out ideas and improve our product range. This showed that finding suitable materials matters while we continue to develop new designs.
Many of the fabric scraps turned out unusable
During the stitching session, we found that many of the available fabric pieces were not suitable for making good-quality products. We planned to visit more boutiques to look for better fabric scraps. We also discussed how to better support and engage Level 1 members. This will help them keep improving their stitching skills and take on more responsibilities in the future.
The team planned how to stay busy between orders
The stitching team discussed how to keep members busy when there were fewer orders. We talked about developing new products and using fabric cut pieces. We also talked about improving current designs to make better use of the available time.
Members practised on fabric scraps and tried out ideas
Stitching team members practised on fabric scraps and tried out new ideas. The exercises helped them improve their skills and find creative ways to turn leftover fabric into useful products.
Stitching team keeps working on new products
The stitching team kept working on new products. It improved quality and looked for better ways to produce them.
More new designs, still made from fabric scraps
The stitching team continued exploring new designs and found creative ways to use fabric cut pieces.
We finished the second batch and started looking at new bag designs and products. We are now focusing on turning fabric scraps into useful items instead of throwing them away. We are experimenting with new ideas and finding practical ways to reduce material waste.
The second batch of bags is ready to deliver
The stitching team completed the second batch of bags. The team is now preparing the order for delivery. The team improved their skills, teamwork, and quality with every batch.
Stitching team finishes another production round
The stitching team ended the month by finishing another round of production. We also looked back at what we learned. We moved from learning basic stitching to handling customer orders. The month showed that we worked better as a team. We also focused more on quality for the next batches.
The second batch of bags was finished
The stitching team completed the second batch of bags, marking another milestone in the programme. With each order, the team builds confidence and improves quality. It also strengthens their production process.
Water stains from the iron box removed two bags from the batch
During finishing, the iron box left water stains on two bags. We pulled them from the batch because they did not meet our standards. The rest of the order moved on.
A zipper's stitch line kept showing on the outside
The stitching team kept working on the new bag design and tried to attach the zipper neatly. The stitching line became visible on the outside of the bag, which affected the final look. The team discussed different methods and shared ideas to achieve a cleaner finish without weakening the bag.
Everyone took a job to keep the order moving
We measured, cut, stitched and quality-checked to keep the next production order moving. We focused and worked as a team.
Speed and teamwork improved on the current batch
The stitching team continued working on the current production batch. We improved our speed and teamwork with each session. Regular practice helped us gain confidence while keeping product quality high.
Curved cuts on handloom fabric are still not clean
We still have not solved cutting smooth curves on the handloom fabric. It is thicker and more rigid than regular cloth. The team tested several methods without finding one that gives a clean finish without wasting material. This is part of a new curved tote bag design.
Cutting techniques rehearsed before the next batch
Members of the stitching team spent the session practicing different cutting techniques for the next batch of bags. They tested patterns and measurements before production. They hoped to reduce mistakes and improve consistency.
We misunderstood the design brief and made three bags to the wrong design. This caused extra work. We learned a new bag pattern and started talking about checking instructions properly before production. The rest of the second bag order continued as planned.
New members practiced while seniors worked the second bag order
New members practiced basic stitching on simple craft items made from fabric cut pieces. They gained a sense of how materials get reused. Senior members continued the second bag order. The session split between learning and production.
Scraps put to use alongside the second tote batch
The stitching team continued working on the second batch of tote bags. We also looked at how to turn fabric cut pieces into useful products instead of throwing them away. The session focused on reducing waste while creating new learning and livelihood opportunities.
A plastic-free zipper proved hard to find
We found it hard to find a zipper without plastic. Most options had plastic. We kept looking. In the session, we designed a laptop bag and thought about how to pad it for protection.
A seventeen-year-old joined the stitching class on her vacation
A 17-year-old student joined the stitching session during her vacation to learn stitching skills. Existing members supported and guided her as she took her first steps in learning the craft.
Fever slowed work on the second batch
Meanwhile, we continued working on the second production batch. Some members had a fever and could not attend regularly, so progress was slower than anticipated. Despite this, the session reflected growing interest in the programme and highlighted the importance of planning for continuity when members were unavailable.
The second production order got under way
The stitching team started work on their second production order. The team was more confident than in the first batch. They took more charge of checking quality and planning the work. The work showed the group what real-world products offer. It also showed what makes them hard.
Canvas samples tested shapes and sizes for a buyer
We tested sample bags in canvas cloth for a buyer. We checked shapes, sizes and construction against their requirements. The exercise showed us what we needed to improve before production started.
A second tote bag order has begun
We finished the first batch of tote bags and started a second order. We are handling this new order with more confidence. We learned from the first batch. We are committed to quality and teamwork.
The first fifteen bags went to FOSS United
The Stitching Club completed its first batch of 15 tote bags, a major milestone for the club. The club handed the bags to Siddharth Shivkumar from FOSS United. The handover celebrated the collective effort of everyone who contributed.
Fifteen tote bags are ready to hand over
Fifteen tote bags are ready to hand over. The stitching team is getting ready to hand over its first batch of 15 tote bags. From fabric cutting and stitching to finishing and quality checks, the participants did every step themselves. This is definitely an exciting step in their learning and livelihood.
Roles split across measuring, cutting, stitching and finishing
The stitching group continued working together on bag production. Participants measured, cut, stitched and finished the bags. We improved our skills through teamwork and regular practice while preparing products for customer orders.
Bag production continues with a team for each stage
Bag production continues, with a team for each stage. The stitching team continued making bags on March 14, 2024. We cut, stitched, finished and checked the quality of each bag. We worked together and supported each other. We built confidence, strengthened skills and gained experience from customer orders.
Work continued on the club's first customer order
The stitching team continued work on their first customer order. They put each piece together with care. Members learned by doing. They built confidence through teamwork.
Supplies prepared and techniques tried on the fabric at hand
We prepared supplies and explored stitching techniques. Together we imagined new ideas for the fabric.
One-to-one coaching on handling the sewing machines
Participants kept practising their stitching with one-to-one guidance. The session covered basic techniques and how to handle the machines. Regular practice helped build confidence.
A relaxed session of sorting fabric and practising stitches
We sorted fabric pieces and prepared materials. We also practised stitches. We worked together and learned from each other. We talked about what the fabric could become.
We grouped stitchers by skill for a coming bag order
We grouped stitchers by skill level for a coming bag order. The groups include beginners and experienced members. Experienced members can help other members learn. The group discussed roles and responsibilities. It also covered production planning and quality checks. Members take on more responsibility as their skills build.
Another day of practice on finishing techniques
We ran the stitching class again today. Students kept practising, measuring and cutting fabric, and working on finishing techniques. Each session seemed to make them more confident and better at details.
Beginners learned by watching the more experienced
Beginners watched and learned. More experienced learners shared tips and techniques. The session provided a space for building skills and mutual support.
The class got closer to production-quality work
The class got closer to production-quality work. The class worked on cutting, sorting and preparing materials. We improved step by step. It was a session of teamwork, fabric and learning.
Intermediate students began helping the beginners
Intermediate students guided the beginners step by step. They showed them techniques and helped them feel confident. Slowly, the class became a shared learning space where students supported one another.
The bags are getting neater and stronger
The bags are getting neater and stronger. They are closer to production quality. Regular practice shows in the skills, the finishing, and the teamwork.
Women practised making production-quality bags from leftover fabric
Women gathered to practise cutting, measuring and stitching. They learned to make strong, production-quality tote bags from leftover fabric. The class keeps growing as a space for learning, teamwork and creativity.
Students worked from sorting scraps to neat finishing
The stitching class continued. Students learned each step patiently, from sorting fabric pieces to finishing neat stitches. With the teacher's support, they slowly turned simple materials into strong and colourful tote bags made with care and teamwork.
Cutting, measuring and stitching practised under the teacher
Students practised cutting, measuring and stitching with care under the teacher's guidance. The room was full of learning, teamwork and quiet concentration. We are working towards production-quality tote bags, building confidence a step at a time.
The stitching class talked designs, not just sewing
Students used the stitching class to discuss and share ideas. They learned together. They studied designs and materials, step by step. They found new ways to get better at making bags.
Members followed a product through the whole process
The stitching class went on. Members learned the whole process of making a product. They handled fabric carefully. They practiced clean stitching. Each session helped turn learning into confidence.
Fabric slowly turned into bags and pouches
We turned fabric into bags and pouches. We practised and we were patient. We made small improvements at every step. The space became a place of learning, support and shared creativity.
Students grew more confident handling fabric
Students in the stitching class grew more confident handling fabric each day. They learned to cut cloth and finish small details. The sessions helped the community slowly build practical skills through regular practice.
Stitching class covers measurements, cutting and bag patterns
The stitching class covered measurements, fabric cutting, and bag patterns from the start. Students worked together carefully, practising each step slowly. The room was full of learning, teamwork, and creativity.
Tracing patterns and preparing cloth for the machines
We traced patterns and prepared cloth for the machines. The room contained fabric pieces and measurement tapes. Everyone concentrated. Each session left them more confident with the process.
The stitching room fills up every day
The stitching space was busy every day with practice, conversations and learning. Beginners and more confident machine users came to sessions. The sessions helped the community build skills.
Members learned to make a tote bag from scratch
Members made tote bags from scratch. They measured the fabric and cut it out. Then they stitched the bag on the sewing machines. We gave practice, guidance and teamwork every week.
Stitching classes have set times and checklists
Stitching classes have set times and checklists for students. We start with the basics. Members learn slowly with more clarity and consistency.
The wall of finished bags shows the class's progress
We ran a stitching class. The finished bags are on the wall. Each bag shows what its maker learned. Some designs were simple. Others were more creative. Every piece shows the effort people put in.
Practical stitching sessions for tote bags
We started practical stitching sessions for tote bags on March 14, 2024. We used straight cutting and measuring. Everyone learned step by step and helped each other.
New fabrics and patterns tried out on zip pouches
In the stitching class, we tried different fabrics and patterns to make zip pouches in new styles. Each piece shows practice and experimentation.
A plain piece of fabric became a zip pouch
We shaped a plain piece of fabric into a neat pouch with a zip in the stitching class. With practice and attention to detail, it became a small but complete product made by hand.
Practice turned into a finished piece
With each stitch, the design came together. Practice turned into a finished piece.
The stitching faculty trained while members watched and helped
We ran a training session for the stitching faculty on making tote bags. Community members came along and helped. They gave ideas, watched, and learned.
A new group started with tote bags and repairs
We gathered on March 14, 2024, to begin learning stitching. We started with tote bags and simple repairs. We built skills and supported each other. We made something useful together.
Neater zips and edges show the skills improving
Small details like the zip and neat edges show how skills are slowly improving with each session.
A student made a whole bag on their own
One of our students said at first they did not know how to stitch. Today, they made a bag on their own.
The first Constitution tote bag sample was made
We made a first sample tote bag with the Constitution printed on it. It was simple, but we thought it showed the values we believe in.
Children started learning to stitch, step by step
We ran stitching sessions where children learned the basics step by step. It was a space for children to learn with their hands. They built patience and slowly gained confidence in creating on their own.
One member turned collected scraps into a bag
One community member collected cut pieces of fabric and brought them together to make a bag. She used colors, patterns, and ideas. What could have been waste is now a thoughtful piece, shaped by creativity, patience, and skill.
Scrap fabric sorted and given a new purpose
We sorted scrap fabric, stitched it and reimagined it. What once seemed like waste found a purpose. Every small piece and leftover turned into possibilities.
Community members shared skills at the stitching session
Community members came together for a stitching session. They shared skills, ideas, and time. With each stitch, confidence grew and creativity began to take shape.
Community member collects fabric bound for landfill from tailor shops
A community member collected fabric pieces from local tailor shops and boutiques. The pieces were once headed for landfill. Now they are sorted and cared for. This gives them a second life. Waste slowly becomes something useful.
A community member's idea became a small bag
A community member had an idea that became a beautiful little bag. They made it with excitement and curiosity, one stitch at a time. It is full of personal touch and joy.
Preparation complete for tote bag production
We prepared for tote bag production, one stitch at a time.
A patient session of measuring and learning each stitch
We measured and learned each stitch with patience and focus. We enjoyed making things by hand.
Careful practice ahead of bulk tote bag production
We prepared for bulk tote bag production by practising stitching carefully and precisely.
Community women interested in designing their own tote bags
A group of five community women came together to make tote bags. They have now expressed interest in creating their own designs for a few of the bags.
Screen printing practice started for Preamble bags and shirts
We started screen printing practice on Oct. 24, 2024. We are working towards putting the Constitutional Preamble onto tote bags and T-shirts.
Community women made tote bags and learned basic repairs
On March 14, 2024, the community women met and made tote bags. They learned basic stitching and repair skills.
Boutique offcuts become tote bags with three Community Members
In the Lab, three Community Members worked with Mary Gracy and Haseena. We worked on tote bags from cut pieces collected from boutiques.
Mending their own clothes in the stitching lab: six members
In the stitching lab, Mary Gracy worked with six community members. We started stitching our own clothes using materials we already had at home, taking time to fix and finish each part neatly.
The Stitching Club runs daily except Mondays, free and in Malayalam
The Stitching Club runs daily from 2 to 6 p.m., except Mondays, and is free. Mary Gracy facilitates the club in Malayalam. The club provides all tools and equipment. It has limited seats, with preference to low income and underserved households from Fort Kochi, Mattancherry and nearby. The club runs at four levels. Repair Upcycling boutique offcuts into bags and pouches Making 2K to 5K a month from what you make Setting up your own club
Their story
What people said
One of our students
“At first, I didn't know how to stitch. Today, I made this bag on my own.”