Handmade, for real!

As any mother with a young child will tell you “for real” is the ultimate truth. I forgot how much I love this declaration until  I wanted to find a way to emphasise that our products are completely handmade. Given the rise in the trend for unique and handcrafted products, the handmade ethic of our products is becoming an increasingly important aspect of our story.

Is using machines- Handmade, for real!?

Every piece of your #byrarity product is touched by a hand. Yes, we do have specialised machines that complete some of the processes- but these require skilled technicians to set and fine tune the settings to ensure that the ever-changing nature of our natural materials, is receiving the best treatment. It takes skill and intuition to adjust the machinery at speed and with dexterity, This is an un-automated process, and as such retains it’s Handmade status. Every Mark, every cut, each hand painted seam, and carefully stitched line is done by a skilled artisan.

The rising trend for handmade goods.

As noted by Monica Orrigo “The most important reason behind the rise in popularity of handmade goods is simply access. Not so long ago, consumers were basically forced to buy what was available at stores in their area. Most people did not have access to unique handmade gift items unless they lived in or travelled to the areas where the goods were made and bought them directly from the makers.

Now, with e-commerce sites that connect consumers directly to the artisans and craftspeople that make handmade items, lifestyle blogs that promote designers and artisans, as well as the ability to ship nearly anywhere by air, ground or sea transportation relatively quickly and cheaply, consumers can learn about and access fine, handmade gifts much more easily. Social media and the Internet also make it easier for makers themselves to directly access their target markets.

Consumers’ Desire to Connect With Makers.

Another reason behind the trend is the desire for a human connection. People like to know that the products they bought were made by a real person––that the products they’re spending money on have a sense of authenticity attached to them.

Many companies have sprung up to meet this inherent human desire, directly connecting makers with consumers. Today, even mass-market retailers and wholesalers often incorporate storytelling about product origins into their marketing, allowing consumers to learn more about the people and communities that make the products.

Consumer Desire for Quality and Uniqueness.

Handmade items are often perceived to be higher quality than mass-produced items. Whether or not this is true, marketers often play on this perception when marketing these goods to consumers, reinforcing established beliefs about the value of handmade goods. Handmade, for real!

In addition, when it comes to gift giving, consumers enjoy being able to give items that are unique, special and memorable. Handmade gift items are believed to be special, something that only a fortunate few people will ever own.

Consumer Desire to Make a Difference.

There are several factors that play into this aspect of the trend towards handmade goods – environmental concerns, along with the ability to make a difference in the lives of makers by providing them opportunities to be paid for meaningful work, is very attractive to consumers. They enjoy the idea of being able to make a difference in other people’s lives simply by purchasing items they likely would have bought anyway.” Handmade, for real!

Our commitment to skills development, and job creation.

South Africa is has a wealth of naturally sustainable materials, so it makes perfect sense to develop skills within our communities in this sector. With the growing trade in handmade accessories made in indigenous materials, we are able to leverage off our heritage to promote South African design within a global context.

Yes, it’s #Handmadeforreal! and we love it- the Rarity team.