Responsible travel: buying crafts well
A few habits that help the maker, not the middleman.
Buy from the maker where you can. Cooperatives, studios and workshops that name the maker keep more money in the community. Ask who made the piece and how long it took.
Pay a fair price. If you bargain, do so lightly. A hand-dyed, hand-woven rug or a block-printed cloth takes days or weeks to make.
Ask what it is made of. Natural and chemical dyes, and different woods and leathers, mean different prices and different care.
Check the rules. Some objects, such as certain animal products, antiques and plants, cannot be exported or imported; check customs rules before you buy.
Ask before you photograph the maker. And credit them if you post the image.
Prices, dates, permits and rules change — approximate, verify before you travel. Researched from public sources; field verification pending.
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