The story of KOUNARA
Our story begins with Kouna.
Kouna is a natural water reed that grows in Manipur’s wetlands. Its dried stems are woven by hand into useful crafts. KOUNARA brings this material, thoughtful design and the care of handcraft into homes and shops.
Rooted in Manipur
A craft with a sense of place.
Manipur is where KOUNARA’s story begins. Our work is centred on Kouna and the many ways this natural material can be shaped into useful, beautiful pieces for everyday life.
We want every introduction to KOUNARA to feel clear and considered: what a piece is made from, where it comes from, and how it might find a place in your home or business.
Natural character
Kouna’s texture and woven forms give each craft its own quiet presence. We let the material remain part of the story.
Made by hand
KOUNARA celebrates handmade craft and the attention that comes with work shaped by hand.
From Kouna to craft
Made slowly, by hand.
Kouna craft begins with harvesting and carefully drying the reed. Once prepared, the stems are woven by hand and shaped into useful forms. The method and finishing details vary with each product.
1. Prepare the material
The Kouna stems are gathered, dried thoroughly and sorted so they are ready to work with.
2. Weave by hand
Women artisans weave the prepared material row by row, building the shape and structure of each piece.
3. Shape and finish
Edges and details are finished for the product, then each piece is checked. Natural differences in colour and weave are part of handmade Kouna craft.
KOUNARA is based in Manipur and directly employs women artisans. We share their Kouna craft with homes and retail partners.
What guides us
Keep the craft at the centre.
We believe the best way to share a craft is to make space for its material, its making and the place it comes from. KOUNARA brings that perspective to every conversation—whether you’re choosing a piece for your home or exploring a wholesale partnership for your store.
Handmade Kouna crafts from Manipur
Discover KOUNARA.
Explore the shop, learn about wholesale or get in touch with us.
Explore the shopWholesale enquiries