From Arras to 15 Arras
When I first started www.arras.in back in 2019, it wasn't just about launching a business. It was about a realization: that in our hurry to make things faster and cheaper, we were losing the dignity of the human hand. I spent years working with incredible artisans in various clusters in India, learning that a textile isn't just fabric—it’s a record of skill, patience, and a specific local history.
The Origins of a Quiet Launch
Arras started in northeastern India in my parents' home as a small experiment. There was no large launch — just a handful of designs, selling via Instagram and a lot of gratitude for the strangers on the internet that trusted and supported a small business.
Over time, certain things became clear. Customers were drawn to pieces that felt easy to wear and lived in. Reviews often mentioned the same words — comfortable, modest, and versatile. These weren’t things we had set out to design for specifically, but they became an important part of how people experienced the product.
Learning Through the Fabric
Working closely with fabric, testing in small quantities, and refining based on what worked — became central to how we build.
In 2024, we took everything we learned and applied it to a small batch of home textiles- table runners and placemats- to sell online. They use the same hand-block printed processes, but fit more easily into everyday life. They’re also simpler to produce in small batches, which allows us to stay close to the product and refine as we go.
A New Chapter in Toronto
After moving to Canada, 15 Arras is a continuation of that work, with a more focused approach.
I’ve had people ask when the clothing is coming back. It will follow, as we set up slowly and surely. But for now, the focus is on building a small, considered range of pieces for the home. These are designed to be used often, not kept aside for "special occasions."
A Note on Gifting This May
As I look toward my first Toronto pop-ups this May, I’ve been thinking about what makes a home feel real. With Mother's Day approaching, I think many of us are looking for something that carries that same sense of "lived-in" comfort we found in our early clothing designs.
If you are looking for a gift, I hope you find something here that feels like those early Instagram days—honest, well-made, and personal.
I’m looking forward to meeting you in person very soon and hearing how these pieces find a place in your own home.
- Unmana