Amigurumi toys – these cute, sustainable, and handmade wonders have become all the rage in Thimphu, offering a vibrant and screen-free alternative for gift-givers. Amigurumi, originating from the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting small stuffed toys, has captured the attention of those seeking delightful presents that steer children away from screens.
Tshering Dema first came across the adorable toys made by her mother in Minje village, Lhuentse. Today, from the comfort of her home at Dechencholing, Thimphu, she creates beautifully crafted crochet pieces that blend creativity and craftsmanship.
Initially, it started as a small home-based business, with products sold on an order basis. However, in 2020, Tshering got the opportunity to embark on her entrepreneurial journey at the startup center, Changzamtok, Thimphu.
Despite lacking formal training, Tshering’s discovery of the warmth in crocheting fueled her passion to turn her craft into a business, inspired by the joy it brought to friends and family.
Tshering shares, “The endless possibilities of colors, textures, and designs fuel my enthusiasm to not just craft items but also to weave a story through each stitch, making every creation a unique expression of creativity and care.”
Her customers express consistent delight in the quality and craftsmanship of her crochet products. The vibrant colors and intricate details receive compliments from both local and international customers, adding a touch of charm to their homes and becoming cherished additions that spark joy and appreciation.
Yet, navigating the competitive handmade goods market brings challenges. Tshering faces issues like a lack of advanced technology causing delays in mass production and the struggle to maintain a steady supply amidst high demand.
“Looking ahead, I plan to seek investors to fuel growth, embrace technology for efficiency, and be flexible in adapting to market changes,” she said.
Tshering envisions taking her brand global, with a focus on genuine, handmade goods. She emphasizes that being an entrepreneur involves risks and challenges, embodying innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of opportunities.
In her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, Tshering encourages them to think big, act smart, embrace failure as lesson, build strong networks, and continuously learn. She believes that success unfolds through perseverance and a relentless passion for turning dreams into reality.
Starting a crocheting business, much like Tshering’s, requires a blend of creativity, dedication, and strategic planning. Her commitment to craftsmanship, understanding market trends, and fostering connections with customers have paved the way for both artistic fulfillment and entrepreneurial success in the world of crochet.
By Rinzin Dema
