An IT professional turned upcycling artist in Kerala is teaching India to rethink waste

Kollam native Amal S Pillai describes his entry into art and craft as accidental. At 31, he recalls being sidelined by a fracture to his left arm during college — an interruption that led him to handicrafts. Short on money, he improvised, swapping satin ribbons for scrap cloth from tailors and using rolled newspapers as twine.

That resourcefulness laid the foundation for Amsham Handmade, founded in 2015, his sustainable creative initiative based in Kochi and Chennai. Over the past decade, it has grown into a practice centred on upcycling, restoring old fabrics, bottles and cable wires, while also hosting workshops and donation drives.

Amal S Pillai during a workshop
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

“I’ve been making upcycled bags and products since 2015. It started as a way to earn pocket money in college,” says Amal, who now works in IT. “I would run online campaigns where people gave me old clothes, and I stitched them into something new.”

Early doubts about demand have since eased. “Now people reach out to restore their old clothes. There’s a shift — people are more mindful about what they own instead of discarding it.” His products, ranging from bags to home decor, are priced between ₹500 and ₹1,500.

Amal also conducts bundle-dye workshops across the country teaching the natural textile technique that uses steamed plant matter — flowers, leaves and peels — to create botanical prints. “We use teak leaves along with marigold flowers or vegetable skins, materials that are easily available,” he says. In 2026 alone, he has trained over 150 participants.

A bundle-dyed shirt
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

“I’ve conducted workshops across the country for all age groups, including senior citizens. As I focus more on workshops, I’ve scaled back production and now train senior women who are passionate about the craft and help fulfil orders,” says Amal.

Balancing a full-time IT job with Amsham Handmade remains a challenge. “People often question your commitment when you juggle both,” he adds, noting that weekends are reserved for his art.

Going forward, Amal hopes to grow Amsham Handmade into a brand for bundle-dyed clothing and other sustainable products, while also creating a dedicated space for workshops.

Amal’s products are available via the Instagram handle @amsham_handmade.