Toda Napkins (set of 6)

This set of six napkins carries the living tradition of the Toda community, an indigenous community native to the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu. For generations, Toda women have practised a distinctive form of hand embroidery, recognised for its bold geometric motifs and meticulous needlework.

Traditionally worked using a counted-thread technique, Toda embroidery is done entirely by hand. The motifs emerge through rhythm, memory, and skill passed down within families, making every embroidered piece slightly different and deeply personal. What appears simple on the surface carries hours of careful labour and cultural knowledge.

In this napkin set, the embroidery is kept minimal and intentional, allowing the craft to remain central without overwhelming everyday use. The fringed edges are left natural, echoing the unprocessed, functional origins of the textile.

Designed to be used rather than displayed away, these napkins bring a quiet presence of craft to the table connecting daily rituals of eating and sharing with a tradition rooted in land, community, and continuity.

Care Instructions: 

• Spot clean gently using a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking.
• Do not machine wash or dry clean.
• Air dry away from direct heat and sunlight.
• Store with tissue paper inside to help maintain the shape, preferably in a dust bag.

Disclaimer: The embroidery pattern on the photos is only a reference. The actual product may differ from the image because no pattern is repeated. Each product is special and unique!

Dimensions: 10"x 10"