World Market is getting experimental and I like it. They’ve recently introduced a new way to shop for handcrafted pieces–the program is called CRAFT by World Market. The way it works kind of reminds me of a Kickstarter campaign: each month, a small collection of more elaborate handcrafted goods are proposed and available for pre-order. If the item gets enough orders then it gets made and sold to the people who pre-ordered it. Every item is limited edition and one-of-a-kind. The rickshaw above (that I am TOTALLY obsessed with) was among last month’s offerings. (Can’t you picture me and Ida rolling around L.A. in that thing!?!)
This month there are some amazing pieces too. My favorite piece from this month’s collection is the Zebra Crewel Rug that (if enough people order it) will be handmade in India. The jungalow wants it…the jungalow neeeeeds it. Here’s a little video that breaks down the new program:
I like this concept so much because it’s a more thoughtful way to manufacture and shop. When a person knows exactly how much of something to produce, there is less waste. And because the items are limited edition, you won’t see your favorite pillow, purse or peacock mirror in every single house you visit–certainly a perk. To check out this months CRAFT offerings, go here.
*This post was created in partnership with Cost Plus World Market. All opinions are my own.
I have yet to purchase anything from World Market, but when I was interested and about to buy something a few months ago, I emailed them because I couldn’t find any info on their website about where the item was made or what their labor standards were. Never got an answer beyond a confirmation email promising I’d have one in a week.
I notice you mention the environmental benefits of on-demand production (woo!), but who’s making the stuff here? As far as I could find out, World Market doesn’t really have any commitment whatsoever to human rights/labor standards in other countries, so as much as I like the pieces you share here (esp. the rickshaw!), it seems like it’s dallying uncomfortably close to cultural appropriation/exploitation of women of color in particular.
I know this is the kind of thing on your mind as well — what are your thoughts on this? Does World Market have any labor standards or commitment to workers/craftspeople for this line in particular?
Hi Julia thanks so much for you comment. Here is what CPWM has to say about their practices: “Cost Plus World Market is committed to ethical and responsible conduct in all of our operations, respect for the rights of all individuals and respect for the environment. We are dedicated to upholding the human rights of all workers involved in our product supply chains. For more information regarding our social compliance, please review our practices at http://www.worldmarketcorp.com/about-us/social-compliance.” hope that answers at least some of your questions–it did mine :)
hi, my name is Lindsey Bethea & I am VERY, VERY interested in buying your 3 wheel bike. If there is anyway possible you could call me or email me that would be amazing. Please email & I’ll send you my number! Thanks!
Interested in your 3 wheel bike. What would it cost to purchase 1-2 pcs, depending on price.