After discovering the art of hand block printing in her village, Shipa Patel launched Chhapa, a unique brand that combines eco-friendly fabrics and vibrant, original prints to revive this centuries-old craft. Now shipping worldwide, the family-run business supports artisans and promotes sustainable fashion.
- Family-run brand Chhapa earns Rs 1.5 crore annually
- Uses eco-friendly fabrics and azo-free dyes
- Supports 25 local artisans and revives a 300-year-old art
What happened
After graduating in interior design, Shipa Patel stumbled upon hand block printing in Deesa, near her hometown in Gujarat. Captivated by the raw texture and craftsmanship involved, she began designing her own hand block printed clothing as a hobby. This passion led to the founding of Chhapa in 2013, a brand focused on reviving the traditional printing technique with a modern twist.
Chhapa now operates both an online store with global shipments—including to the US, Singapore, and the UAE—and a retail store in Ahmedabad. The brand generates close to Rs 1.5 crore annually, with a quarter of its revenue directed to around 25 artisans, supporting their livelihood and the continuation of the craft.
Why it feels good
Sustainability is at the heart of Chhapa’s mission. The brand chooses eco-friendly fabrics like cotton and khadi and uses natural or azo-free dyes, which ensure the prints are safe for both the environment and the artisans’ skin. Leftover fabrics are creatively upcycled into accessories such as bags and pouches, minimizing waste and extending the life of materials.
Beyond environmental benefits, Chhapa is playing a critical social role by providing steady work to artisans who were otherwise struggling due to the decline of hand block printing caused by fast fashion trends. Their collaborative approach empowers artisans to contribute to the designs, and the revival of this craft is bringing younger generations back into the fold.
What to enjoy or watch next
Chhapa’s collections feature unique motifs like elephants, planets, and rickshaws, blending traditional craftsmanship with playful, contemporary aesthetics. This fusion creates a fresh appeal that resonates especially with younger customers seeking sustainable and meaningful fashion choices.
The family team—Shipa, Hardik, Bimal, and Sheetal—continues to innovate by engaging deeply with their artisan partners, sharing creative ideas, and nurturing new talent keen on preserving this 300-year-old printing technique. Watching this brand grow offers insight into how heritage crafts can thrive peacefully alongside modern commerce while enriching communities.