Bersahara First Handicraft Market

Women from Ujung sewing group during the market

Last September 22nd and 23rd we held the first Handicraft Market with all the bags that the women have learnt to make with Babette. Market was held at Solah Beach and Bar restaurant in Kuta Lombok.

For two days the women had the opportunity to see for themselves the interest people showed, not only in the handicrafts but, also in themselves and their little sewing business. It was good for them to realize the effort it takes to sell and the importance of explaining the nature of the project, the nature of the fabrics and their handmade work.

All products are hand made using locally hand woven fabrics (like Ikats from Sumbawa and Java and Sabuk and Songket from Lombok), with inspiration from modern designs introduced by our volunteer and designer Babette. The women started their training the second week of July, some of them with a very basic knowledge of machine and hand sewing as well as embroidery. Babette has taught them about designing, work processes and organization, cleanliness, concentration and patience. See for yourself the results in only 2 months!

 

 

Although it was a bit intimidating for them at first, since they had never been exposed to so many foreigners who wanted to meet them and talk with them, they managed to use their very basic knowledge of english and their spontaneity to make a 3,500,000Rp sales (around 350US$). This is a great achievement for them and has encouraged them to continue with the learning and hard work and to believe in the little business they have started. We are very confident that this is only the beginning!

Congratulations to all the women and to their teacher, Babette, and their supporter, Ellen!