Supporting local artisan communities

Bulacan COMMUNITY

House of Coco

In the heart of Bulacan, our talented artisans transform coco coir, a natural fiber extracted from coconut husks, into adorable and functional animal and emoji-inspired planters. These handcrafted pieces are more than just charming home accents; they are versatile and sustainable lifestyle products that can also double as unique wine holders, adding a creative touch to any space.

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Community Challenges:

Scaling production: Meeting growing demand while maintaining the handcrafted quality and personalized touch of each planter.

Sustainable Growth: Balancing traditional craftsmanship with the need for innovation and modern design trends to appeal to a wider audience.

Market Reach and Awareness: Increasing visibility and expanding to new markets beyond local fairs and online platforms.

SORSOGON COMMUNITY

House of Abaca

In the coastal town of Sorsogon, a vibrant community of artisans is dedicated to crafting stylish handbags from abaca, a natural fiber native to the Philippines. Abaca, known globally as Manila hemp, thrives in the Bicol region, with Sorsogon historically being a significant contributor to its production.

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Community Challenges:

Climate Vulnerability: The region's exposure to natural calamities, including typhoons and heavy rainfall, poses risks to abaca cultivation, leading to immediate losses in fiber production.

Market Access and Pricing: Fluctuating market prices and limited access to larger markets can affect the economic stability of abaca farmers and artisans. For instance, in nearby Catanduanes, farmers have faced challenges due to dropping fiber prices and the absence of bulk buyers.

Resource Constraints: Limited access to modern equipment and funding hampers the ability to scale production and improve efficiency. The need for better farming management and optimized fiber usage has been identified as a factor affecting productivity and income.

Bicol Community

House of Solihuy

in the Bicol region of the Philippines, a dedicated community of artisans specializes in crafting stylish handbags from abaca, a natural fiber indigenous to the area. Abaca, also known internationally as Manila hemp, is a species of banana native to the Philippines and has been a significant part of Bicol's traditional agriculture.

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Community Challenges:

Sustainable Abaca Cultivation: Ensuring a consistent and sustainable supply of high-quality abaca fibers is crucial. Factors such as plant diseases, climate change, and the need for sustainable farming practices can impact production.

Market Access and Competition: While there is a demand for abaca products, artisans often struggle to access larger markets and compete with mass-produced goods. Building brand recognition and establishing distribution channels are ongoing challenges.

Skill Preservation and Innovation: Balancing the preservation of traditional weaving techniques with the need for innovation to meet contemporary design trends requires continuous learning and adaptation.

La Union Community

House of Inabel

In the coastal province of La Union, we proudly collaborate with skilled artisans who specialize in the traditional art of Inabel weaving, a centuries-old textile craft deeply rooted in the Ilocano culture. Inabel, known for its intricate patterns, durability, and cultural significance, is handwoven using age-old techniques passed down through generations.

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Community Challenges:

Market Access & Competition: The rise of cheaper, synthetic alternatives has made it challenging to maintain a steady customer base willing to invest in handcrafted pieces.

Declining Interest Among Younger Generations: With the influence of modernization and urbanization, fewer young people are interested in continuing the tradition of Inabel weaving.

Cost of Raw Materials: Sourcing high-quality cotton and natural dyes can be costly and sometimes inconsistent, affecting production timelines and pricing competitiveness.

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