Artisans skillfully coil and quill colorful
recycled newsprint, then finish with a clear protective coating to add
rigidity. 2"h x 3"w x 5"d. Origin : Vietnam
Mai Handicrafts was started by two social workers who were concerned
about improving the lives of street children and single mothers in Ho
Chi Minh City and ethnic minorities in mountain villages. Building on
the belief that social development is intricately tied to economic
self-reliance, Mai Handicrafts reaches out to artisans in underserved
areas providing marketing and training and returning some of the profits
from the sales of handcrafts to fund social work projects.
The 300 artisans (80% are women) associated with Mai Handicrafts are
earning between US$50 and $70 a month in a country where the average
monthly income is US$20-30. Many are able to work from their homes or in
small workshops instead of seeking work in Vietnam's factory
industries. With an eye for detail, Mai's artisans make pottery, silk
scarves & purses, baskets and lacquerware. Their creative use of
renewable resources like bamboo, recycled paper, and other natural
fibers make their products among our top sellers.
