--- title: "Channapatna Craft Experience: Make Your Own Handmade Toy - mytribe" description: "Discover the art of Channapatna toys! Join our hands-on toy making workshop and factory tour. Learn from 4th-gen artisans, use safe organic dyes, and craft your own unique wooden toy to take home. Book your unforgettable Channapatna Craft Experience today!" canonical: https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-craft-experience last_updated: 2025-09-12 --- # Channapatna Craft Experience in Channapatna By [Bharath Art And Crafts](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts) · We let you visit our Channapatna toy factory, see artisans at work, and make your own eco-friendly wooden toy using traditional methods. ## Locations Factory visit in Channapatna ### Visit at - Toy Factory on Sathanur Rd, Channapatna (Located near Ramanagara, Janapada Loka, Sathanur, Kengal Temple, Kanva Reservoir) ## Pricing guide (estimates) These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote. ### Guided Production Floor Walkthrough 30 to 45 minute walking tour covering the complete 7-stage manufacturing process from raw log to polished toy. Typically ₹100-120 per person (estimate) #### Tour Overview * **Duration:** 30 to 45 minutes. * **Location:** Active KSSIDC Industrial Estate production floor. * **Process:** Step-by-step commentary on all 7 production stages, from wood selection to the final finish. #### Live Demonstrations * **Wood Turning:** Watch artisans shape raw Ivory Wood (Aale mara) logs on power lathes. * **Lacquering:** Observation of the coloring process using natural vegetable dyes. * **Finishing:** Demonstration of friction polishing using Screw Pine or cactus leaves. #### Interaction & Access * **Tactile Experience:** Handle raw wood samples and natural lacquer sticks. * **Photography:** Permission to take photos and videos of artisans at work. * **Shopping:** Access to the factory outlet for purchases at factory prices. ### Assisted DIY Toy Making 20 minute hands-on session with 1-on-1 artisan guidance to lathe, lacquer, and polish a small souvenir to take home. Typically ₹350-450 per participant (estimate) #### Session Specifics * **Duration:** Approximately 20 minutes of active machine time. * **Supervision:** 1-on-1 mentorship by a master artisan for safety and technique. * **Output:** You take home one small souvenir (spinning top, keychain, or small doll). #### The Making Process * **Shaping:** Assisted use of chisels to shape the rotating wood block. * **Coloring:** Applying organic lacquer sticks to the spinning wood to create colored bands. * **Polishing:** Using a dry palm leaf to achieve the signature glossy finish. #### Materials Provided * **Wood:** Pre-cut, seasoned Ivory Wood soft-wood block. * **Dyes:** Access to standard palette of natural colors (Red, Yellow, Green, Black, Orange). ## About Channapatna Craft Experience ### Our Legacy in Every Toy This isn’t just business for us - it’s our family’s story, running through four generations in Channapatna, also called 'Gombegala Ooru' (toy town). When the craft started to fade, I brought our work online and now, over 500 artisans are part of our family. For us, seeing our art loved by people is the true win. We want you to step into our world, not just as a visitor, but as someone who’s part of the story. ### What You’ll Experience Our factory doors are open for you to dive into a real Channapatna toy workshop. You can choose: - **Guided Factory Tour:** Get a close look at how the toys come alive - from a block of wood to a finished piece. Watch artisans at work, and hear about the cultural roots, including how we earned the Channapatna GI craft tag. - **Hands-on Workshop:** Try your hand at making your own toy with the help of an experienced artisan. No skills needed - just show up, get messy, and take home your own creation. You’ll see how we use natural dyes (all chemical-free, from veggies and plants) and traditional techniques. ### Safe, Sustainable, Real We use 'Aale mara' (Ivory wood), and our colours are 100% organic. Every toy is durable, kid-safe, and eco-friendly - that’s our promise. Feel free to check out our showroom after your visit; you’ll see everything our community makes. ### Quick Info We’re open Monday to Saturday, 9:30 to 6:00. Closed Sundays and public holidays. Located right in Channapatna, on the Bangalore-Mysore highway. Workshop slots fill up fast, so plan ahead. ## Highlights Browse through Bharath Art And Crafts's best work. ### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-craft-experience/featured) - [Video: This video gives you a glimpse into the entire journey at our workshop. See how our artisans transform wood, watch a visitor create their own toy, and discover the vibrant, chemical-free toys you can take home as a memory of your visit to Channapatna, the 'Gombegala Ooru' or toy town.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/45c2e7e7-9fdb-4e1c-ab44-6a09953a87c2) - ![We were honored to host Home Minister Amit Shah, who took a keen interest in the wood-turning process. Here, one of our senior artisans guides him as he tries his hand at the lathe, connecting with the heart of our traditional Indian craft.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b2a83b79-a666-46e2-8993-7ca4b48a0dd6) - [Video: You can create your own toy, just like this happy visitor. Our artisans will guide you through every step, from shaping the wood to applying our special organic colors made from plants and vegetables. It's a rewarding experience that ends with a beautiful, self-made souvenir.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e74a13a7-6b44-4ec6-9775-26227b127b25) - ![The final details are always painted by hand. This close-up shows an artisan carefully applying natural dye to a penguin toy, a testament to the skill and patience that goes into every single piece we create. This is what makes each Channapatna wooden toy unique.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/84a90200-c54d-4e5b-bf85-44d133fe7252) - ![An army of our handcrafted penguin toys, ready to find new homes. Made from sustainable Ivory wood and finished with a smooth, non-toxic lacquer, these toys showcase the modern designs our artisans create while staying true to traditional methods.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4192767f-2fe4-4775-b762-5ccf9a8bf5ae) - ![We are incredibly proud of this case study by Google, which details how we took our four-generation family business online. This step helped us create sustainable work for over 500 local artisans and share the art of Channapatna with the world.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/16ba940e-363a-45be-b333-c66b9f8aa4a6) - ![It was a pleasure to welcome renowned Hungarian photographer Pál Nánási and his family to our workshop. We love sharing our craft with visitors from around the globe and seeing their joy as they explore our showroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6168ef3b-68ce-4eeb-ac71-7fa47e7a8d94) - ![This image captures the essence of our craft. An artisan, focused and skilled, works at a traditional lathe, surrounded by wood shavings and the tools of the trade. This is a scene that has been part of Channapatna's identity for centuries.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b5dd7964-44aa-49ea-a936-938b4f5f96c1) ### [Hands-on Workshop: Make Your Own Toy](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-craft-experience/hands-on-workshop-make-your-own-toy) - ![Here, one of our artisans provides one-on-one guidance to a visitor at the lathe. We ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident as they learn the basics of wood turning, making the experience accessible even for complete beginners.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/956b02a3-6f37-4da7-ad86-f2ba77749437) - ![A visitor completely absorbed in the process of shaping her first piece of wood. The hands-on workshop is a chance to disconnect and focus on creating something beautiful with your own hands, learning a new skill along the way.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5fd3a5fa-64ac-4c0e-89b0-54bc9a67b0f8) - ![With intense focus, a participant learns to handle the chisel on the spinning lathe. This is the most crucial step in toy making, where the raw wood begins to take on a new form under the creator's touch.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8ed97d18-3010-4ee9-93b6-85f920d71e96) - ![Even our youngest visitors can get involved. Here, a child is learning to paint a toy with our safe, organic colors, experiencing the joy of artistry. It’s a perfect family activity that creates lasting memories.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a006eee8-2ad5-4aaa-9101-3b55c25c43a4) - ![We had the privilege of showing Hon'ble Justice K.N. Phaneendra the intricate process of applying lacquer. He is seen here learning the technique from one of our experienced craftsmen during his visit to our factory.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b65d503c-dbc0-49c4-aea1-7ed0d98744cf) - ![An artisan watches closely as a visitor carefully carves a piece of Ivory wood. Our workshops are designed to be a collaborative and supportive learning environment, where we share the joy of our craft.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a973a7fb-d7e9-4f62-873a-c1005c8fc26c) ### [The Art of Channapatna: A Look Inside Our Factory](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-craft-experience/the-art-of-channapatna-a-look-inside-our-factory) - ![A young artisan carefully works on a new design. We are constantly blending traditional techniques with fresh ideas, ensuring the craft of Channapatna continues to evolve while honoring its roots.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cbe09064-51f6-460b-907a-6e0e63d31301) - ![A black and white view of the traditional lathe, the heart of our workshop. This simple machine, combined with the skill of an artisan, is where every toy begins its life, surrounded by the fragrant shavings of Ivory wood.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/449d368c-e109-4c73-98ec-8f7e585518c4) - ![This series of images shows the key stages of our process. You can see the initial sanding of a ring, the intricate hand-painting for detail, and the final finishing touches that bring each piece to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4d3e8533-42a5-4af2-9018-6c9b600bba4a) - ![A close-up of an artisan's steady hand painting a cheerful face onto a wooden doll. This delicate work requires immense precision and is what gives our toys their distinct character and charm.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fd274a51-f7c5-4eac-a310-dfe879c6c6ad) - ![An artisan applies a fine coat of lacquer using a spray gun. This modern technique helps us ensure a durable, even finish while still using our traditional, safe, and natural coloring materials.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c69579d8-48a0-4859-ba3c-ae3907b03c7d) - ![Freshly lacquered spinning tops rest in a bed of wood shavings. This image captures the vibrant colors and the raw, earthy environment of our factory floor, showing the toys at an intermediate stage of creation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9b953b49-e64b-48fa-a44f-b36783d680a1) - ![A pile of colorful wooden whistles, waiting for the final assembly. These simple, classic toys are a nostalgic favorite and demonstrate how even the smallest items are crafted with care and attention to detail.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/67220f6b-2ef3-4a09-9897-f656f5e47041) - ![Wood shavings fly as a chisel shapes a block on the lathe. This action shot captures the dynamic and raw energy of the wood-turning process, a skill passed down through generations of Channapatna artisans.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b7e1eab2-bab4-4b18-8ff0-d4d04f0fed4e) - ![This sketch represents the timeless spirit of our craft and the foundational role of women artisans in our community. It is a tribute to the generations of skilled hands that have kept this art form alive.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ba234d71-9124-4a19-96fd-180dc97cea80) ### [Our Handcrafted Collection](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-craft-experience/our-handcrafted-collection) - ![Our owl-themed pen holders are a popular choice for office and home decor. Available in a variety of rich, organic colors, they add a touch of handcrafted charm to any desk. Each piece is turned from a single block of wood.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/194b9249-31bf-4836-b65b-147e7ed3e9e0) - ![A collection of traditional village-themed dolls in various stages of completion. These figures, representing rural life, are a classic example of Channapatna's storytelling through craft, often collected for display during festivals.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/61920dff-747e-4092-81e7-539695a699e2) - ![These minimalist dolls represent a traditional Indian couple. Their simple, elegant design and clean lines showcase a modern aesthetic while being crafted with the same authentic techniques and natural materials.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/633c6d6e-44b3-4fb8-917d-b5e7cb8a5ef7) - ![A closer look at our owl pen holders, nestled in a pile of wood shavings. This view highlights the glossy lacquer finish, which is achieved using a unique friction polishing method with pandanus leaves.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/81e2e525-a4a3-4341-a60a-0168fd8421aa) - ![These cheerful, smiling sun discs are components for a larger toy. The bright, happy faces are painted by hand, and the vibrant red is derived from natural pigments, making them completely safe for children.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d3a27afd-936d-493e-8c51-026156f06b5c) - ![Another view of our colorful wooden pen holders. The slight variations in each piece are a hallmark of handmade crafts, ensuring that every item you purchase from our showroom is one of a kind.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/dc2198b6-75d2-4f97-852d-8613be188384) ### [A Legacy of Recognition](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-craft-experience/a-legacy-of-recognition) - [Video: A truly proud moment for our entire community as our handcrafted Anjaneya doll is presented to Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This recognition at the national level is a powerful validation of our 'Make in India' spirit.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b1955409-169f-4a1f-9686-6023741ef5e7) - ![Here I am shaking hands with Mr. Rahul Gandhi as he visits our exhibition. It is always an honor to showcase the skill of our artisans to national leaders and share the story of Channapatna's craft heritage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/09747af6-f0aa-447d-aec4-fe804264f828) - ![Discussing the intricacies of our craft with Mr. Rahul Gandhi. In the background, you can see former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Mrs. Sonia Gandhi observing our collection of handmade toys.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4eb9e1d0-7610-4151-9ea0-387816377f3b) - [Video: This Google advertisement beautifully tells the story of how we embraced the internet to save our dying art form. It shows how digital tools empowered our artisans and took our local craft to a global audience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bfd74e6e-b8ef-469e-84a7-8a1faba9e48a) - ![We were featured in this City Kemp newspaper article, which delves into the 18th-century Persian origins of Channapatna's wooden toy craft. Media features like this help spread awareness about the history and importance of our work.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/28cc7537-5b27-473d-89a9-82f3109c6b60) - ![We were pleased to host Honorable Sessions Judge Devaraja Bhat M for a tour of our factory. It is encouraging when public figures take a personal interest in understanding and supporting local craftsmanship.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3878851b-61b9-4bb2-8ab0-2c421d9ba731) - ![Welcoming a film crew from Asia Light to our workshop. Documentaries and video features allow us to share the visual story of our toy-making process with a much wider audience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/680f0bf6-b98e-4448-8e90-e26f5d28b893) - ![A moment of interaction with Mr. Rahul Gandhi, explaining the different types of toys we create. Sharing our passion with visitors is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/79ff6646-a730-40ae-888a-642fd7874646) ## Meet your expert [Bharath Art And Crafts](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts) ### My story Namaskara! We’re Bharath Art & Crafts, been around since 1955 - Channapatna’s own Gombegala Ooru. Four generations, all about wooden toys. Back then, things got tough, almost lost the art. In 2014, Suhel here put our craft online. Suddenly, our toys travelled everywhere - even White House, PM Modi. But honestly, the best part? We now support 500 artisan families. Our dream is to keep this tradition alive, no middlemen, just pure craft. ### My work - **Handmade Channapatna Wooden Toys**: We make toys using 200-year-old methods and organic vegetable dyes. Safe for kids and full of history. - **Unique Corporate Gifts & Home Decor**: Our ivory wood home decor and gifts are all handcrafted, traditional yet modern. - **Toy-Making Workshops & Factory Tours**: Join our Channapatna toy-making workshop, visit our factory, and get hands-on with artisans. - **Supporting Local Artisans**: Every purchase helps 500 families keep this beautiful craft alive. No middlemen, just direct support. ## More services from Bharath Art And Crafts - [Channapatna Wooden Crafts](https://mytribe.in/bharath-art-crafts/channapatna-wooden-crafts) · ₹200-500 per toy (estimate) ## Experts similar to Bharath Art And Crafts on mytribe - [Artisan Toys & Traditional Games by Varnam Craft Collective](https://mytribe.in/varnam-craft-collective/artisan-toys-traditional-games) · ₹350-4,000 per piece/set (estimate) · Varnam Craft Collective - [Eco-Art & Craft Workshops by En Madtidiya](https://mytribe.in/en_madtidiya/eco-art-craft-workshops) · ₹499-1,800 per participant per workshop (estimate) · Bengaluru - [Arts & Crafts Workshops by Shades Creative Learning](https://mytribe.in/shadescreativelearning/arts-crafts-workshops) · ₹300-2,200 per participant per workshop (estimate) · Shades Creative Learning - [Block Printing Workshops & Experiences by Tharangini Studio](https://mytribe.in/tharangini-studio/block-printing-workshops-experiences) · ₹2,500-9,000 per person (estimate) · Tharangini Studio Pvt Ltd - [Natural Art & Craft Workshops by Dyehome](https://mytribe.in/dyehome/natural-art-craft-workshops) · ₹500-2,000 per participant per session (estimate) - [Custom Handmade Crafts by Paint Cafe Studio](https://mytribe.in/paintcafe_/custom-handmade-crafts) · ₹1,000-2,500 per person per workshop session (estimate) · PAINT CAFE STUDIO - [Puppetry & Craft Workshops by Dhaatu Puppet Theater](https://mytribe.in/dhaatupuppettheater/puppetry-craft-workshops) · ₹400-7,000 per participant per workshop (estimate) · Dhaatu Puppet Theater - [Puppetry & Cultural Arts Workshops by Dhaatu](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-cultural-arts-workshops) · ₹800-15K per participant per workshop (estimate) · Mandala Cultural Centre - [Kids' Craft Workshops by Play-boards](https://mytribe.in/play_boards_in/kids-craft-workshops) · ₹600-1,300 per child per session (estimate) · Bengaluru - [Traditional & Folk Art Workshops by Art Voyage](https://mytribe.in/artvoyage.in/traditional-folk-art-workshops) · ₹600-1,500 per participant per session (estimate) · Art Voyage - [Art & Craft Experiences by Klayworkz Barista](https://mytribe.in/klayworkzbarista/art-craft-experiences) · ₹400-1,200 per person per session/item (estimate) · Klayworkz Barista-KlayBar Art Cafe ## Book To book Bharath Art And Crafts, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Channapatna%20Craft%20Experience%20by%20Bharath%20Art%20And%20Crafts.)