Quilt shops busy in Sirajganj as winter sets in

Quilt-making shops in Sirajganj are seeing a rush of customers as winter approaches, while higher raw material and labour costs have pushed up prices.

The quilt and mattress makers in the district have become busy with work from morning to evening. Some customers are ordering new quilts and mattresses, while others are bringing old ones for repair ahead of winter.

During a visit to different markets in Sirajganj, workers at quilt shops were seen busy carding cotton, cutting cloth and sewing. Cotton, cloth and finished quilts were piled up in front of the shops.

Some customers were choosing their preferred cloth and cotton, while others had brought old quilts to have them remade.

However, traders said the costs of cotton, cloth, sewing and labour have all increased compared to last year. As a result, the cost of making quilts and mattresses has also gone up.

This has led to bargaining between customers and sellers over prices. In some cases, arguments have also taken place.

Quilt trader Humayun Sarker said work has increased with the arrival of winter.

“But as the prices of raw materials are high, it is not possible to make quilts and mattresses at last year’s prices. Customers are asking us to reduce the prices, and we are also trying to keep them as low as possible,” he said.

Meanwhile, customers said prices of almost all essential goods have increased along with winter clothing, quilts and mattresses. As a result, people with limited incomes are struggling to manage their household expenses.

Customer Sohel Hossain said it is costing more to make quilts and mattresses this year than last year.

“Other household expenses have also increased. We need to buy necessary items for winter, but the higher prices are creating problems for us,” he said.