Metal crafts incorporate vintage themes, recycled materials

Models use metal recycled from paint boxes and drums to create decorative and functional pieces in naturally rustic and vintage looks.

In an effort to conserve metals and distinguish themselves from international rivals, India suppliers are steering away from the typical and instead are choosing recycled materials to create metal crafts.

Recycled metals such as iron and tin are drawn from paint boxes, cylinders and drums. Metal combinations are also popular as most materials are sourced locally. In terms of choices, aluminum, brass, copper, iron and stainless steel are commonly used. Variants with bronze, silver and zinc are reserved for export.

Releases feature vintage themes, natural designs and rustic looks as these are visually appealing to buyers. Shiny, aluminium and stainless steel finishes are applied to further improve aesthetics and prevent corrosion and rusting. Common finishes include bronze, antique, copper and powder coatings. Models that use iron wires have copper, gold and stainless steel plating.

India artisans show off their region's influences and workmanship through the surface treatments and techniques they employ. Kashmir is famous for its floral and calligraphic designs while Moradabad is known for ornamental pieces. Other indigenous craftsmanship include koftagiri, filigree, dhokra, marori and bidri.

India suppliers of metal crafts provide a variety of models suitable as decoration, collectibles, gifts and utilitarian pieces. Popular crafts include human and animal figures, deities, monuments, lanterns, photo frames, garden ornaments, vases, candle holders and small furniture. Novelty items such as wall clocks are also common.

Handcrafted Exports and Maisha Handicrafts offer models made of recycled tin or iron. The former retains the original form and finish while the latter features handpainting.

Vintage themes and famous monuments are highlighted in Radiance Enterprises' models. Functional pieces such as letter holders and wine racks are also offered. Releases are made of cast aluminum with a shiny finish.

Venus International offers decorative pieces with molded and grooved details. Some feature ornamental motifs and rings. Models are made of cast aluminum with a steel, gold or silver finish.

Price is influenced by the type of metal, finish, size and crafting technique.

Low-end pieces are made of aluminum, copper, iron or tin with a plain surface, shiny finish and painted with enamel. Size is 3 to 5in. These are priced at $2 to $6.

Midrange products come individually or in sets of two to three. These are made of metal, brass, aluminum, iron and steel with smooth, cut, embossed, grooved, carvedor polished surfaces. Models measure 5 to 10in and are offered at $6.50 to $20.

High-end models have more artworks and different finishes, particularly copper, gold and silver. Products have a height of 11 to 25in. Price ranges from $20.50 to $50, and can go up to $100.

There are nearly 1,000 exporters of metal crafts in India, 100 of which are large companies with a monthly production of 20,000 to 50,000 pieces. Midsize and small manufacturers, meanwhile, have a capacity of 10,000 to 20,000 and 5,000 to 10,000 pieces, respectively.

The last fiscal year showed UAE becoming the largest export market of metal crafts, followed by USA, UK, Germany, France and Australia. Emerging destinations are Canada, Japan and Latin America.

See a comparison table of metal craft suppliers on GlobalSources.com