Behind the Hustle: My Crochet Journey
People called it a 'daddi amma wali hobby,' but today it's my full-time passion. Take a look at the real-life hustle behind my handmade crochet creations.
My biggest flex is that I self-learnt crocheting via YouTube while going through a really dark phase in my life. This video tells the story of how my craft became my therapy.
My butterfly effect. If I hadn't had PCOD and left my job, I wouldn't have challenged myself to learn crochet and I wouldn't be living my dream life running this business.
I started a crochet business just for fun, and now I am the creator, model, social media manager, designer, and everything else. This is the real life of a solopreneur.
POV: You built a successful business from a "daddi amma wali" hobby. This is a look at my stall, filled with things I made with my own hands.
The real struggle of a small business owner! Whether it's sun or rain, we will always be there at our outdoor stalls. The tanning is real, but so is the passion.
I'm working late because I'm the crocheter, the small business owner, the photographer... this is the behind-the-scenes hustle that goes into every single piece.
My father's advice keeps me going. He taught me that it takes time to build a business, and you have to be patient. I'm so blessed to have his wisdom and support.
What you see: people admiring handmade treasures. What you don't see: me doing a happy dance in the corner. Every sale and every smile means the world.
A little GRWM video where I'm trying on my own creations. Being the founder means I'm also the first one to test and love every piece.
One cha-ching, two cha-ching... suddenly you're obsessed. A fun video about the joy of seeing orders come in and knowing my creations are finding new homes.
About Behind the Hustle: My Story
Running this business is a solo act. I am the creator, the model, the photographer, and the packing team. Every time you see me at an exhibition, it's after hours of stitching and battling the elements, because I believe in making something real for you with my own two hands.
My journey started in 2022. I was dealing with a tough phase of PCOD and needed a way to keep my mind busy. I picked up a hook, watched some YouTube tutorials, and somehow, it just clicked. What began as a distraction became my therapy and then, my business.
When you buy from A Hand-Crafted Gaatha, you aren't just getting an accessory. You are getting a piece of my story. Whether it is a pair of my signature 'Titli' earrings or a custom amigurumi plushie, I handle the process from the first stitch to the final knot.
The Real-Life Hustle
I take my outdoor stalls seriously. Rain, cold, or scorching Delhi sun, you will find me there, sometimes relying on a bit of 'jugaad' to keep my display intact. This is not factory-made stuff; it is slow-made. I work primarily with 100% cotton yarn because I want your jewellery to be beautiful without weighing your ears down.
I am currently based in Delhi NCR, with my work available at places like 'ate' in Saket and Muskan Bakery in Ghaziabad. If you have an idea, let me know. I love taking custom orders because that is where the magic happens. Your outfit, your choice of colours, and my crochet hook — let's make something unique together.
Tanisha Kharbanda
I'm Tanisha. I turned my hardest days into this brand, A Hand-Crafted Gaatha. Whether it is crafting tiny butterflies or packing your orders, I handle every step myself to make sure it is perfect.
Find your favourite handmade accessory
Browse my collections or reach out for a custom crochet piece.
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