Halloween-Themed Wool Felt Banner from India, "Delightful Halloween"

"Hi friends! I'm from Delhi where I was born in 1983. I'm very hardworking, dedicated and passionate about art.

"Since my childhood days, I was fascinated by the beauty of fabric and beaded ornaments. I was very keen to know about their making. It amazes me to think how tiny beads and pieces of fabric can create fabulous ornaments. In one word, I was eager to know all about arts and crafts.

"Initially, I created beaded necklaces as a hobby, and then as gifts for friends and family. I decided to learn how to make beaded ornaments and fabric ornaments by watching videos and presentations. After graduation, I started working for a local market retailer who would provide me with designs and beads to make necklaces and garlands.

"Bright, dazzling and colorful beads always fascinated me, and I was happy with my work. But the real twist in my life came after my marriage. My husband is my mentor, without whose support I would not be what I am today. He worked for an export company that sold ornaments and other decorative items.

"After our marriage, when he came to know about my interest in arts and crafts, he offered to teach me to design and craft ornaments, and about the use of different shapes and patterns. This was a great feeling of achievement for me. He taught me according to different themes.

"As I always wanted to do something of my own, with my husband's support, I decided to take this up as a profession. He decided to leave his job and work with me. It was a big challenge but, today, I am proud to say that we are doing well. We have started a small workshop of our own, and presently we have a team of nine members who work with us. My husband taught most of them how to craft the ornaments. Both my husband and I also do the crafting work.

"My favorite part of this art is giving shape to the fabric ornaments. We design and craft each one of felt. Each piece is stuffed with polyfill to give it the right shape and size. We create felt ornaments, garlands and buntings for every occasion, like Christmas, Halloween, Mother's Day and Easter.

"It's so beautiful to be able to achieve your goal and do what you want in life. Working with us gives our team members the opportunity for employment and financial stability."