Khadi Papers

Khadi Papers is an India/UK-based ethical handmade paper manufacturer headquartered in Hubli, Karnataka, India / UK. Founded in the 1980s, the company operates a mill in Hubli plus a UK distribution hub employing <50 direct + thousands of indirect rural artisans. Revenue of millions USD. Private.

Core Business

Khadi Papers is a pioneering social enterprise that has brought traditional Indian handmade paper craftsmanship to the global art materials market with a distinctive fair trade supply chain model. Renowned for its extraordinary range of handmade papers crafted from 100% cotton rag, recycled fibers, and indigenous plant materials including banana, hemp, flax, sisal, and jute, Khadi offers artists an unparalleled palette of textures and surface qualities. Papers feature distinctive natural deckle edges, unique fiber variations, and exceptional absorbency prized by watercolourists, printmakers, and mixed media artists worldwide.

Global Presence

Distributed to 40+ countries through the UK hub, Khadi has become standard stock in art supply chains across Europe and North America. The ethical supply chain model—supporting thousands of rural South Asian artisans while maintaining British brand credibility—resonates strongly with sustainability-conscious consumers, art schools, and luxury institutions. Co-branded collaborations such as Etchr x Khadi further cement its position as the bridge between Indian handmade craft tradition and global fine art markets.

Key Strengths

Unique ethical supply chain model directly supporting thousands of rural South Asian artisans creating a compelling brand narrative; most distinctive product range in handmade paper category with unparalleled fiber variety (banana, hemp, flax, sisal, jute, cotton rag); strategic Hubli location at Asia's largest open-air cotton market providing unmatched raw material cost advantages; global distribution to 40+ countries from exceptionally lean organizational structure; authentic handmade production with genuine cultural provenance creating irreplicable competitive advantage; successful expansion into luxury packaging, wedding stationery, and bespoke corporate applications. VerityRank Score of 89/100.