Colours, chaos and joy

woman @ work

In a world that often leans into monotones and minimalism, there’s something refreshingly rebellious about colour - loud, unapologetic, joy-sparking colour. Especially when it shows up on your morning mug or the platter you serve guests on. That’s exactly the kind of magic Dugdugi is serving - through every hand-painted ceramic piece.

“I’ve always had a thing for loud colours, a bit of chaos, and a lot of joy,” says the founder Ramsha Muzaffar. Dugdugi is a Karachi-based handmade ceramics brand. The brand is all about painting the local pottery scene in bold, brilliant strokes. Armed with a degree in Economics and Mathematics from IBA and a lifelong dream of starting her own business, she taught herself glass painting during the pandemic - channelling the nostalgia of her mother’s stained-glass art into something uniquely her own. From mugs to platters to wind chimes that sing in colour, her pieces are anything but ordinary. “I wanted to bring joy to the table - literally,” she laughs, “and I think Dugdugi is doing just that.” This week, she chats with You! about her journey and everything in between…

How did the venture come to life?

Before launching, I spent time researching the local pottery market - what was available, what was missing. Most ceramics I came across were plain and minimal. But I’ve always loved bold colours and statement pieces, and I wanted my work to reflect that.

What’s the story behind the name ‘Dugdugi’?

I’m a millennial, and like many of us, deeply nostalgic. Dugdugi was the name of a small toy drum we played with growing up - and it just felt right. It’s playful, rhythmic, and personal. Fun fact: the logo was designed and digitally hand-painted by me.

What kind of products do you make, and how do you decide what to create?

Our collection includes everything from mugs and serving bowls to platters - basically, everything you’d want to set a joyful table. Customer feedback drives a lot of our design decisions. Whether it’s a DM on Instagram or someone stopping by at markets like

The Commons or Mashion Bazaar, we listen closely. If someone says, “Hey, can you make this?”- We’re on it.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

Vibrant yet timeless. Our pieces are for everyone - from teens picking gifts for their moms to husbands surprising their partners. At its heart, the brand is about joy and shared moments through meaningful, eye-catching design.

What makes your brand stand out?

We bring a contemporary twist to age-old craftsmanship. Each piece is not just useful - it’s made to spark conversation. Think bright colours, playful patterns, and distinct shapes that instantly catch the eye.

What goes into making each piece?

Every item is handmade using a method called ‘slip casting’. We pour liquid clay into plaster moulds, dry it, fire it, paint it, glaze it, and fire it again. From start to finish, each piece takes up to two weeks to complete.

What’s surprised you most about running a business in Pakistan?

How much people truly appreciate handmade work. I wasn’t sure if a bold, colourful aesthetic would land well here, but our customers have been so supportive and excited. It’s been incredibly heartening.

As a woman, what challenges have you faced running a craft-based business?

Pottery is very male-dominated, especially on the production side. Building trust with the artisans was crucial, and I’m proud of the positive dynamic we’ve created. One proud moment: we now have a team of women artists who help paint our pieces.

But yes, sometimes in meetings people assume there’s a man calling the shots. I always make it clear - this is my business.

How do you price handmade work - and do people get the value?

Pricing is based on how long something takes to make and how much space it takes up in the kiln. Thankfully, our customers usually understand that handmade isn’t just a product – it is hours of love and skill. We even made a behind-the-scenes video to show what goes into it.

How much has social media helped you grow?

A lot. Instagram has been a huge part of our journey. We haven’t leaned too much into influencer marketing - we prefer to let our work speak for itself. That said, we’ve been featured organically. Seeing home chefs use our platters in their videos is always a win.

What are your most popular products - and your personal favourites?

Bestsellers? Definitely the 12-inch platters, bubble mugs, and ramen bowls. My personal favourite? The Blue Bird Platter, the Teal Bird in a Flower Garden platter - and of course, that bubble mug.

Do you take custom orders or collaborate with other brands?

Yes. We love custom bulk orders and creative collaborations. One highlight was working with Masala Bazaar in New Zealand - we made custom candle jars for their brand ‘Refresh’ and people loved them.

Any plans to scale up or open a studio/shop?

Yes, we’re already stocking at several retail locations in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. We were also recently featured by Kreate Your Mark. So, big plans are on the way.

How do you deal with creative blocks or burnout?

I allow myself breaks. When things feel off, I take a step back and remind myself why I started. That clarity always helps.

What’s a typical workday like for you?

It starts with Instagram (of course), replying to messages and handling orders. Then it’s on to packing, designing, and developing new moulds and patterns. My afternoons usually involve inventory checks and client follow-ups.

A home indulgence that brings you joy?

K-Dramas. Guilty as charged.

Your most treasured possession?

My phone - it’s my camera, planner, inventory manager, research tool... my lifeline, really.

What’s one lesson life or work has taught you about relationships?

That respect is the foundation of any relationship - personal or professional.

Tell us about the women who’ve supported you.

I’m so lucky to have strong women around me - my Nani, Ammi, Khala, and even my mother-in-law and her sister. They’ve all cheered me on from the beginning.

What advice would you give young women hoping to start something creative?

Just start. Don’t wait for things to be perfect. Start small, stay curious, and create something that’s true to you.