Rweaves
Rweaves partners with weaving communities practising Patola and Tangaliya to strengthen traditional craftsmanship through design innovation, enterprise development, and market access.
Preserving Heritage. Weaving Sustainable Futures.
Who We Are
Sustainability is woven into every thread we create.
RWeaves works with weaving communities in Surendranagar, Gujarat, to preserve traditional craftsmanship while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. Since 2010, the initiative has supported artisans through design development, quality raw materials, working capital, branding, product diversification, and market linkages that connect handcrafted textiles with contemporary markets.
The initiative began when Patola and Tangaliya weavers faced declining incomes and shrinking market opportunities. In partnership with Care India and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), SAATH worked with over 2,000 Patola and Tangaliya weavers to improve access to affordable credit, develop contemporary designs, and organise self-help groups. This collective effort later evolved into SUVAS (Surendranagar Vankar Samaj), a federation that continues to strengthen artisan-led growth.
Today, RWeaves promotes handcrafted textiles made from natural fibres, supporting fair livelihoods while preserving Gujarat's rich weaving heritage. Every product represents skilled craftsmanship, cultural legacy, and a commitment to a more sustainable and responsible textile future.
Tangaliya Weaving
A 700-year-old weaving tradition from Gujarat
Tangaliya (or Daana) weaving is a 700-year-old craft native to the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. Known for its distinctive bead-like texture, the technique is created by twisting extra weft threads around the warp to form intricate geometric patterns inspired by nature, including peacocks, flowers, and trees.
By the early 2000s, this remarkable craft was on the verge of disappearing, with only a handful of weaving families continuing the tradition. Through design support, working capital, and market linkages, RWeaves has helped revive the craft by connecting artisans directly with contemporary markets, enabling them to preserve their heritage while building sustainable livelihoods.
Patola Weaving
An iconic handwoven textile tradition of Gujarat
Patola is one of India's finest handwoven textiles, celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colours, and geometric patterns. Woven using traditional techniques that require exceptional precision and skill, every piece reflects generations of knowledge passed down through artisan families.
Rweaves works with Patola weavers in Surendranagar to strengthen livelihoods through design innovation, quality improvement, branding, and market access. By creating opportunities for artisans to reach wider markets, the initiative helps ensure this timeless craft continues to thrive for future generations.
Jayana Oza
Ahmedabad
"What impressed me most was the story behind the products. Every piece feels unique and thoughtfully made. RWeaves is not just preserving Gujarat's weaving heritage—it is empowering artisans through dignified and sustainable livelihoods."
Shweta
Bihar
"I purchased a Tangaliya stole and was amazed by its intricate detailing and soft texture. It is elegant, versatile, and unlike anything available in mainstream stores. The craftsmanship truly reflects generations of skill."
Aslam Shaikh
Ahmedabad
"I bought an Rweaves purse recently and absolutely loved it. It’s beautifully crafted, stylish, and I love knowing that my purchase supports the artisans behind it."
