Majja Design Studio

India | Grass Mat Weaving

Majja Design Studio works with women mat weavers from Pattamadai, Tamil Nadu, a town known for its long tradition of weaving mats from korai, a grass which grows along the Thamirabarani River. This craft has been practiced for generations and is now primarily carried forward by women from the Labbai and Rowther communities.

Founded in 2024 by textile designer Mohana Kannan, Majja began through close collaboration with master artisan Kavva Beevi and her family. Today, nearly 20 women artisans are involved, many of whom rely on mat weaving as an important source of income.

The mats are woven entirely by hand using dried korai grass. The grass is soaked, split into fine strands, smoothed, and sun-dried before weaving. Artisans work on a distinctive mobile loom, sitting directly on the warp and using their hands, feet, and body weight to create dense, durable mats that are naturally cooling in warm climates.

Majja keeps traditional techniques intact while exploring new patterns and layouts, including checks, stripes, and geometric forms passed down through generations. For many of the women involved, weaving provides a way to earn from home while maintaining cultural practices and supporting their families. Each mat is finished with the maker's name.