A free, non-profit site for small artisans and discerning buyers
After looking for, but rarely finding, locally made gifts and souvenirs, I was tired of buying last-minute presents running through the airport. Getting home, I found they were usually mass made in Asia and weren't in any way representative or supportive of the local community I had visited or was living in.
- Delicious macarons from L'Atelier d'Eléonore (France)
Why buy Made in China when we have lovely, locally handmade things on our doorstep?
At the same time, creative and talented friends around me were struggling to sell their beautiful handmade products. Small artisans can't compete with big companies, even though their products are of better quality and more environmentally friendly.
- Funky fish from FB PaperArt (UK)
What if we could easily find and meet local artisans?
For sure, improvements have been made and Etsy is far better than Amazon. But we still can't easily find and meet local artisans, touch the product, talk about traceability, get to know the person and the process behind the product.
Even if we find the local market on holiday, we still have problems overcoming the language barrier.
- Balloons over Bristol from Eclectic Gift Shop (UK)
No charges, no fees.
This is not a marketplace. Just an honest recommendation.
So I made this site for all those talented small artisans wanting to reach tourists and locals. A free, online window in two languages where customers can easily find your shop/stall or online presence.
And for all those people looking for locally handmade goods, both at home and on holiday; hopefully this site will help you find something unique, authentic and environmentally friendly.
Who knows, maybe you could get the chance to meet the people behind the products and learn a little about their craft.
Natasha
- 100% handcrafted jewellery from MAHTE bijoux (France)
