Ettikopaka is a village in Andhra Pradesh famed for its wood and lacquer craft. The craft involves wood-carving on a turning lathe and lacquer application to the finished object, also on the lathe.
For many years the craft had degenerated and for lack of work, many had left the trade. With the creation of Padmavati Associates, formed with the aim of bringing work to artisans and reviving the craft, the toy industry at Ettikopaka has had a new lease of life. The group has revived the use of organic pigments in the lacquer, improved the quality of the products, helped create new designs and find new markets for the craft.
These attractive lathe-turned toys have rounded edges, come in unusual organic colours and have a high degree of gloss. They do not contain harmful chemical colours, making them safe for children.
