In this heartfelt episode of the Women Gazette Podcast, we are honored to feature Ms. Tasneem Shabbir, the visionary founder of Just A Crochet, a soulful, sustainable brand that has redefined what handmade means in today’s world. Her journey didn’t begin in a studio, it started at home, in a quiet corner where her mother sat. Watching her mother crochet wasn’t just a childhood memory it was the beginning of something lifelong, something sacred.
While she learned embroidery as a young girl, Ms. Tasneem’s deep connection to crochet came after marriage. She would visit her mother regularly, sitting beside her, learning each stitch with devotion. What started as a way to stay connected to her roots slowly turned into her passion. Crochet became her language of love, care, and identity. Every piece she creates today carries the values passed down to her patience, detail, and pride in making something with your own hands.
Ms. Tasneem describes Just A Crochet in three words: creativity, innovation, and passion. Yet, building a brand in a space that’s often overlooked or underestimated wasn’t simple. There’s a common misconception that crochet is just “women’s work” or a hobby. But Ms. Tasneem believed otherwise. With an MBA in Human Resources and a strong will to lead with dignity, she built not only a business but a community of women artisans empowering others to see crochet as both a skilled craft and a viable profession.
She launched her business in her thirties, all while managing the responsibilities of motherhood and home. It wasn’t always easy. There were days filled with exhaustion, self-doubt, and sacrifice. But Ms. Tasneem never stopped. Her children became her inspiration, and her husband stood firmly beside her, supporting her dream from the very beginning. Today, her work has been featured in exhibitions including a prestigious art showcase in Goa, a true reflection of her talent and persistence.
What also makes Just A Crochet so special is Ms. Tasneem’s commitment to sustainability. She avoids plastic, focusing on timeless handmade pieces that last. One of her most beloved creations is the crochet varmala wedding garlands that couples can cherish forever. “Earlier, flowers would fade,” she shares, “but now, people want to preserve memories. Handmade makes that possible.” Her brand speaks of heritage, but also of a shift toward meaningful, lasting artistry.
Ms. Tasneem Shabbir’s journey is not just about business, it's about purpose, resilience, and staying rooted in values. Her story shows us that when women are given space to grow, they rise not just for themselves, but for their families, communities, and traditions. Supporting women-led, homegrown ventures like Just A Crochet is not just a gesture, it's a commitment to preserving art, culture, and creativity for the future.
By Yash Bharti.