Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Pune Craft Room Helps People Swap Screens for Creativity
In Pune, India, a 62-year-old woman named Rhoda Gaikwad Staneley started a craft room called Creator's Hands.
This special place helps people learn embroidery, crochet, and quilting.
It's not just about making things; it's about being patient, making friends, and feeling happy.
Over 100 people have visited, from teenagers to grandmothers.
They come to learn new skills, take a break from their busy lives, and enjoy creating with their hands.
Rhoda believes that making things by hand can help people feel more confident and connected.
She wants to bring back the joy of creating, just like when people used to sit together and stitch after finishing their chores.
In this craft room, people find a place to slow down and make something beautiful, both with their hands and in their lives.
Creator's Hands Craft Room was founded by Rhoda Gaikwad Staneley in Pune in July 2025.
The craft room offers classes in embroidery, crochet, and quilting, focusing on patience and community.
Over 100 participants, ranging from teenagers to retirees, have attended the classes.
Participants discover new skills, find a sense of purpose, and build friendships.
The craft room aims to help people slow down, be present, and reconnect with hands-on creativity.
- Who
- Rhoda Gaikwad Staneley, a 62-year-old social worker and educator
- What
- Creator's Hands Craft Room, a creative space for learning embroidery, crochet, and quilting
- When
- Founded in July 2025
- Where
- Pune, India
- Why
- To help people slow down, be present, and reconnect with hands-on creativity
Traditional Crafting
Digital Entertainment
Engagement and Skill Development
Traditional Crafting
Traditional crafting offers hands-on skill development, patience, and a sense of accomplishment through creating physical objects.
Digital Entertainment
Digital entertainment provides instant gratification, a wide variety of content, and convenience through easily accessible online platforms.
Social Interaction
Traditional Crafting
Crafting in a communal setting fosters face-to-face interactions, building a sense of community and personal connections.
Digital Entertainment
Digital entertainment often leads to isolated screen time, reducing opportunities for in-person social interactions.
Mental Health Benefits
Traditional Crafting
Engaging in traditional crafts can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance mental well-being through mindful, hands-on activities.
Digital Entertainment
Digital entertainment can sometimes contribute to stress, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection due to excessive screen time.
- Founder
- Rhoda Gaikwad Staneley
- Location
- Pune, India
- Established
- July 2025
- Participants
- Over 100
- Activities
- Embroidery, crochet, quilting
- Class Size
- 4 to 8 participants
- Focus
- Patience, presence, and connection