In the heart of Nepal, a remarkable woman named Rita Taibu is weaving a tapestry of sustainability, empowerment, and creativity. Her journey revolves around the craft of making felt balls, a simple yet versatile art form that has found a massive market around the globe, captivating craft makers and designers alike. Felt balls are not just any balls; they are handmade treasures crafted from 100% natural sheep wool. Rita's journey begins with sourcing the finest wool from Nepal itself, ensuring that the entire process is locally rooted. She is the driving force behind Nepal Art Shop Export and Import Pvt. Ltd, where she buys wool and other helpful materials. Rita and her team of Nepalese women artisans are the architects behind these exquisite felt creations. From Sari Silk and Sari Ribbon to Recycled Silk Multi, Recycled Silk Solid Yarn, Banana Silk Multi-color, Banana Silk Solid color, and Feswa Thrum Multi, their catalog is a testament to their craftsmanship. These sought-after products are not just limited to the Nepalese market; they are exported to countries as far-flung as the USA, Canada, Australia, Brazil, and Japan.

But what exactly goes into the art of making felt balls? It's a journey in itself. Rita shares a step-by-step guide that demystifies the process: 1. Forming the Core: Begin with a small chunk of wool felt, shaping it into a roundish wad.
2. Adding Layers: Wrap strips of wool felt around the core, forming a solid base for the felt ball.
3. Soaking and Rolling: Submerge the ball in hot, soapy water and gently roll it in your hands as it shrinks and compacts.
4. Creative Touch: Customize your felt ball by adding different colored wool strips or creating unique patterns.
5. Final Touch: Once the desired size and look are achieved, rinse the felt ball and let it air dry.
But Rita's mission goes beyond crafting beautiful felt balls. She imparts her skills to women in nearby villages, creating a ripple effect of empowerment. These women learn to make recycled silk fabric rugs, silk fabric t-shirts, silk fabric bags and backpacks, silk fabric sofa and table sheets, and much more.

Felt balls, it turns out, have a multitude of uses. From felt purses and kids' bags to tea coasters and Christmas ornaments, these soft and bouncy creations find their way into homes, personal fashion, and craft projects across the world. Rita's sustainable silk journey is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and conscientious craftsmanship. As her felt balls roll into new hands and new homes, they carry with them the story of Nepalese women crafting a brighter, more empowered future—one felt ball at a time.