A new store specialising in traditional Indian handicrafts is gearing up to open on St Werburgh Street.

The brand, 'Karigarwala', was born out of a desire to preserve and promote traditional Indian craftsmanship, while providing artisans with sustainable livelihoods. 

With doors expected to open late July, it seeks to bridge the gap between skilled craft workers and contemporary markets.

In the unit where the Bepo pop-up once stood, owner Shubhangam Singh is opening the Chester location as the brand's first flagship store - with plans to launch in York, Bath and Norwich. 

Recognized as one of the '20 under 35 Emerging Designers of India', he cited the lack of similar stores like it in the city, believing Chester is a prime spot for the enterprise.

"We work basically just with artisans; everything is just handwork so we don't do machine work at any point", Shubhangam said. 

Owner Shubhangam Singh has been recognized as one of the '20 under 35 Emerging Designers of India' (Nub News)

With a background in furniture design, the business owner recently moved to the city from London to realise the dream of opening his flagship store. 

He added: "It's all artisans working in different hand processes. Numerous hours put in a tedious process to do different kinds of inlays." 

The name is also emblematic of the meaningful and slow process of creating each piece that customers will see in store, Shubhangam explained. 

"Karigar is known as the artisan. Wala is a person who works with the artisan. So, it's about all the craftsmen working together to bring out the pieces, " he added. 

An issue at the core of Karigarwala's concept is the local artisans who fail to get recognition or a platform for their work.

"We work with craft amalgamation, basically. We work with different artisans - around 1,700 to 2,000 artisans back in India, Rajasthan, all around," Shubhangam said.

"They're working directly with us and we make the products. These are very contemporary pieces, but with a touch of tradition.

"Nothing which is too tacky or gaudy."

You can follow the team's progress up until the doors open on the website here or via social media.