Thanuja Lace - Galle

Thanuja Darshini Gunaratna is a resilient entrepreneur from Galle with a passion for preserving the traditional craft of Beeralu lace, also known as bobbin lace, amidst its gradual decline among the younger generation. Being hard of hearing, weaving Beeralu is the way she expresses her creativity and passion for beautiful details.  

Learning the intricate art of weaving Beeralu lace from her mother and the community of women around her, she registered her business - Thanuja Lace, in 2002, determined to carry forward the heritage she inherited from them. Later, encouraged by her mother-in-law, a skilled seamstress, to pursue formal training, Thanuja honed her craft to excellence. At 74 years old, her mother-in-law remains a guiding force in Thanuja's journey, to whom she attributes much of her success. 

Initially working alone for the first three years after registering her business, Thanuja has since expanded her enterprise. Presently, she oversees a team of four full-time employees along with a network of 25 talented Beeralu weavers, ribbon weavers, and seamstresses. Moreover, she is committed to supporting local producers by sourcing all her raw materials, from handloom fabric to Beeralu and ribbons, locally. This dedication to local sourcing ensures high-quality production and contributes to the sustainability of the community. 

Her product range includes table mats, napkins, clothes, home decor, and table runners. Each piece showcases the intricate beauty of Beeralu lace, adding an elegant touch to any setting. However, through Made by Her, she has napkins, table runners and table mats to ensure her most popular products are accessible to a broader audience that appreciates the timeless artistry and craftsmanship behind each creation. Take your time and shop through her collections.