Weaving magic out of their looms… 
Weaving is done exclusively by women in the NE region of India.  Various kinds of looms are used, some of which are the throw shuttle loom, fly shuttle loom, Waist loom or the Back strap loom. The latter is popularly used amongst the ethnic communities of Assam (Karbi, Mishing), and hill states like Nagaland. They resemble the back strap looms of Peru, Guatemala and Indonesia.

Due to the nature of the loom, the width of a fabric is normally woven at one time and do not exceed more than 18 to 20 inches. Larger pieces of fabrics are made by stitching number of strips together.

NEN started a small Handloom Project in 1998 in a few villages of Assam, aiming at preserving the traditional designs while diversifying products to increase their visibility. Recently in 2008, NEN initiated a new project, Chizami Weaves in Nagaland,   with the support of Rajiv Gautam, an alumni of the National Institute of Design. Both projects are an attempt to create livelihood opportunities for women and in enhancing their professional choices, their earning capacities and collective space. NEN’s products are usually sold in state fairs, national exhibitions within India. They are also available  in the NEN offices of Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland.

Products of NEN are as follows: Buta motifs  in yardage; Curtain Cloth,  Mekhela Sador (Assamese gear), Mekhelas or Sarong-like gear; Dupattas; stoles;  Gamosa (Face Towels), Hankies; Table mats, Sling bags & Cushion Covers.