A loan helped to buy specialized sewing equipment for her workshop, along with a cutting table, as well as obtain raw materials.


Aidai's story

Aidai runs a studio where she works with 15 female artisans to design and produce textiles created by fusing wool felt and handwoven silk or sometimes wool felt and cotton. These textiles are made in a hand-rolling process using local wool. The wool felt and silk are fused into a single textile, which is used for scarves, wraps, and apparel. Aidai also makes by hand a variety of wool felt items, including apparel, rugs, and jewelry. She has been recognized with several awards for her products since they combine a deep knowledge of traditional Kyrgyz felting techniques with contemporary design. Her work is best known for bold and colorful designs that draw their inspiration from the colors of nature. A loan of $20,000 will help Aidai reopen her studio and rebuild her business after several months of lockdown due to the pandemic. This loan will also allow her to launch a new line of designer felt clothing. Currently, she produces mostly scarves and wraps, and she needs to diversify her product line to stay viable. To achieve this goal, she needs to invest in new, specialized sewing equipment for her workshop, along with a cutting table, as well as obtain raw materials. Further, Aidai wants to expand her training program for felt artisans; the loan will help her create suitable space for master classes in her studio.


This loan is special because:

It supports artisan organizations that have an impact beyond a single artisan.



Loan details


Lenders and lending teams




Loan details