Discover a Craft Woven in Wire

Tarkashi is a centuries-old inlay art from the hills of Himachal Pradesh, where slender threads of brass and silver wire are hand-set into wood to create intricate geometric and floral patterns. Once reserved for palace doors, temple furniture, and ceremonial boxes in the Sirmaur region, this craft turns plain wood into something that catches the light and tells a story with every line.

At Skilltales, we’re bringing this rare tradition into a hands-on workshop — no prior craft experience needed, just curiosity and steady hands.

A Craft Rooted in Heritage

Tarkashi is believed to have flourished under the patronage of the rulers of Nahan, where skilled artisans embedded fine metal wire into carved wooden grooves to decorate furniture, boxes, and architectural panels. The technique demands patience: each wire is cut, shaped, and hammered into place by hand, with no glue or shortcuts — just the natural grip of wood and metal fitting together.

Today, only a handful of artisan families continue to practice this art, making it both a cultural treasure and an endangered skill.

What You’ll Learn

• The history and cultural significance of Tarkashi
• How to prepare and mark a wooden surface for inlay
• Traditional wire-cutting and shaping techniques
• Hand-setting brass wire into carved grooves
• Finishing and polishing your piece to a mirror shine
• Care tips to keep your handmade piece looking its best for years

By the end of the workshop, you’ll take home a finished Tarkashi piece — made entirely by you.

Why Join This Workshop

Learn from tradition, not just theory. Our sessions are guided by artisans and instructors trained in authentic Tarkashi techniques passed down through generations.

Small batches, real attention. We keep group sizes small so every participant gets hands-on guidance at each step.

A meditative, screen-free experience. There’s something deeply calming about shaping wire and wood with your hands — Tarkashi is as much a mindfulness practice as it is a craft.

Support a living heritage. Every workshop helps keep a rare Himachali art form alive for the next generation.

Who Should Join

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a design lover, or simply looking for a unique weekend experience, this workshop welcomes all skill levels. No prior experience with woodwork or metalwork is required.

Ready to Get Your Hands on History?

Join us for a Tarkashi workshop and create a piece of functional art you’ll treasure — and a story you’ll love to tell.