At Gooseberry Fool, sustainability and women’s empowerment are at the heart of everything I do. As part of my ongoing commitment to ethical craftsmanship and responsible production, I’m thrilled to announce my new partnership with the inspiring co-operative Sewing the Seeds, a social enterprise uplifting marginalised women in India through sustainable textile work.
A Journey of Connection
Earlier this year, my son and I travelled to India to meet the wonderful team behind Sewing the Seeds. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by Ritika, the manager at the time, who introduced us to the talented female artisans creating the beautiful, handcrafted products that the co-operative is known for.
The sense of community was palpable, a space filled with love, laughter, and mutual support. Both my son and I felt instantly connected to these women and the incredible spirit that drives their work. I knew immediately that this was a connection I wanted to nurture and grow.
Who are Sewing the Seeds?
Sewing the Seeds is more than a textile project, it’s a lifeline. This co-operative provides safe, fair, and sustainable employment for women from marginalised and vulnerable backgrounds, including nomadic, tribal, sex worker, and disabled communities.
Their mission is simple yet powerful:
To sew the seeds of equitable employment, break the poverty cycle, and leave no woman behind.
By offering textiles education, fair wages, and ongoing support, Sewing the Seeds directly contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Sustainability Woven In
One of the most inspiring aspects of Sewing the Seeds is their unwavering commitment to sustainability. All their creations are made using up-cycled saris and locally donated fabrics, giving new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfill.
Each piece is unique, beautiful, and rich with history. When I was selecting fabrics for our first collaboration, a collection of reusable sari drawstring bags, I was mesmerised and overwhelmed by all the colours, patterns, and textures.
'Was this sari worn at a wedding, a festival, or a farewell? What memories are woven into its folds?'
Though we may never know, each up-cycled fabric carries a story, a gentle reminder that beauty, like love, is meant to be passed on.
Beyond the needle and thread
What truly sets Sewing the Seeds apart is their dedication to the wellbeing of every woman. Each week, production pauses for creative and restorative activities, dancing, embroidery, music, or simple moments of joy.
Here, the women are valued not only as skilled artisans but as mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends. This year, the co-operative began supporting self-care activities tailored to each woman’s interests, from Bharatnatyam dance lessons to women’s circles where they share tea, laughter, and connection.
It’s a model of community care that we can all learn from, proof that when women are supported and celebrated, entire communities flourish.
A Partnership with Purpose
I am so proud and delighted to collaborate with Sewing the Seeds. Each reusable drawstring bag that your Gooseberry Fool order arrives in has been lovingly handmade by these talented artisans.
When you receive your order, I hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate the story, skill, and spirit stitched into every piece, and to know that your purchase helps empower women, protect the planet, and sustain traditional craftsmanship.
By choosing Gooseberry Fool, you’re supporting ethical production, sustainable design, and the incredible women who make it all possible. For that, we are endlessly grateful. 💚
