Women Empowerment
In the villages of Biratul Dhanun, Bagdi, Gararia, and Bindan in Nagarpur Union of Kaliganj, swing-making has become a popular craft, earning these villages the nickname _ “Swing Villages.”
The next step in creating these Handmade Swings involves adding the bottom portion of the swing. Depending on its size and design, crafting a single swing can take anywhere from a few hours to several days.
In these peaceful rural areas, a quiet revolution is taking place. Alongside their everyday household tasks, the women here are generating extra income by making swings.
Approximately three hundred men and women from this region are now part of this thriving cottage industry, helping to shape the future of Handmade Swings.
Types Of Handmade Swings
Sometimes, swings are crafted while hanging from the veranda; other times, they’re tied to the sturdy branches of nearby trees where they quietly come to life.
In some places, artisans even build high bamboo scaffolds to sit atop and continue working on the swings from above — a beautiful blend of balance and creativity.
While bamboo and cane swings were once common in this region, today’s demand is for thread-made swings. With artistic imagination and intricate weaving, artisans shape various styles such as bride swings, chair swings, and round disk swings.
These handcrafted swings are not only popular among urban elites but also gaining recognition overseas. The craft is growing steadily, and even school and college students are joining in.
Entrepreneurship
A small swing requires up to one kilogram of yarn, while larger swings need even more. Artistic designs are crafted on the surface of the swings, much like the traditional patterns found in Shitol Pati (cool mats).
Recently, factories have been established in this area to meet the growing demand.
Thanks to nationwide success and potential, new entrepreneurs are emerging in the industry.
Each factory employs an average of 120 to 130 artisans, offering decent wages. This has helped many women in the villages become self-reliant. Women from nearby districts also come here to work.
Artisans are paid per swing, with wages varying based on the design and size of the Handmade Swings.
Swings are regularly supplied from here to the capital Dhaka, as well as to Khulna, Jessore, and Chittagong. A skilled artisan can make three to four children’s swings per day, depending on their experience.
Cushions for Swings
Cushions are essential for comfort when sitting on Handmade Swings. The process of making cushions starts with garment scraps, which are repurposed to create the soft seating.
Around the swing-making industry, a separate small-scale cottage industry for cushion production has quietly flourished in the region.
Cushion factories are busy day and night, providing employment to thousands of young people. The cushions are made to match the type of swing, with designs varying based on customer demand.
Some swings require two cushions, while others may need several, adding a personal touch to each swing.