Customers ask the most thought provoking questions…

Last week I was asked, in my opinion – “What is the most important reason they should choose to buy hand made?” I guess the most politically correct answer would be to support the work of handcrafting artisans, but that is not the most important reason that I buy hand made whenever possible.

Here are my thoughts;

Quality – In most cases the quality of raw ingredients and the manufacturing techniques used in creating by hand are superior to those available in the mass manufacturing market. This can be largely contributed to cost containment. Large manufacturers must invest millions into a product before the item is even tested. All entrepreneurs have the cost of doing business, but in the hand made, cottage industry those enormous costs of R&D, testing, marketing, manufacturing, packaging and distribution are extremely less – allowing for the use of finer ingredients and better quality production techniques.

Choice – Hand made means having a more extensive choice in products. Large companies spend a great deal of money to find out what will sell. As a result, the manufacturer will then produce what their research indicates the masses or average person fitting their demographic will desire. This is fine, if you are among those they are hoping to fill the needs of, but what about those of us that would like something different?

Custom – While not all hand made artisans can make products especially for you, many do and those that don’t can usually point you in the direction of a fellow artisan that will. One of the most common complaints I hear from customers is how they became addicted to a particular product and are now having to undergo a 12 step program because the chain is no longer carrying it. Value – Hand made products for my purposes are crafted to bring to my customers something “top shelf”. You know the stuff that you were taught to save for special occasions, the fancy china, or frilly towels you don’t dirty, reserved for guests. Into everyone’s lives there should be top shelf items they are allowed and encouraged to use each and every day.

Craftsmanship – The most obvious reason products made by hand are special is because the artisan’s energy goes into everything they craft. It’s a priceless ingredient, not available when a product comes off an assembly line. As the artisan becomes seasoned their wares become more valuable. As their skills and creativeness age, so does their ability to perfect their product, and the consumer is gifted with the very best money can buy with no extra cost for expertise and pride.

Support – And since it’s a very important part in the cycle of commerce…support those that create to ensure they will continue to do so. Regardless of your reason, it is good business to spend money in your own backyard, giving back to those that may support you. So much of our domestic dollars are spent on imported and inferior grade junk.

Choosing hand made keeps our country’s artisans creating the best products you can buy!