Here at Hands Of The World we're very aware of the conditions for craftspeople in developing countries. The venture began in 1980 while working as a volunteer in Thailand, as director of a non-profit, self-help handicraft project in a refugee camp.

Today we try to purchase as many of our crafts as possible through cooperatives, development projects, and directly from the craftspeople.
By supporting development projects and cooperatives the craftspeople receive a fair price for their labor, in addition to other valuable services such as: child and medical care, skill development, and education which will provide a better future for them and their families.

Certainly not everything in the store comes through these sources but we strive to maintain a balance and support them whenever possible. When buying crafts overseas we try to be conscientious and look closely at the integrity of our sources. We know that this is important to you also and that you share our appreciation and respect for these crafts and the people who make them.