There has been much talk around tariffs thanks to the new American President. Tariffs in many cases lead to price increases for local goods due to the high cost of production in western countries. In fact, ‘artisanal’ comes to mind when I think of locally produced goods – this often means paying way more for something that can be found at the supermarket for half the price but are worlds apart in quality. Have you ever bought artisanal bread? Or artisanal anything? Is it worth it? Is the manner of production important? So many questions and scant hipsters around to answer them!
On a recent trip to India, we visited a small textile factory which produced hand block printed fabric using a traditional process that people of the village had been using for hundreds of years. It was arduous work! At times tedious, dirty, and repetitive, but also highly skilled. However, the outcome was wonderful! Gorgeously designed, unique prints on a quality cotton. And seeing how it was made, only enhanced the character of the fabric as one-off individual pieces. These days, more than likely a similar design is being mass produced in a factory for less cost and bigger financial gain so, is there any point to doing it the old way? Why bother with laboriously producing these fabrics when it can be done much more easily? What is worthwhile about something made using traditional practices?
Hand made things have a level of character and detail that cannot be replicated. Slight variations add individuality and charm. Producing things by hand usually means there are less of them, making them more valuable. Furthermore, without support, these traditional skills are in danger of being lost. And in small towns where employment is often hard to find these jobs are so important.
Ethics and sustainability are key factors too. Often factories give rise to exploitation, and the fabrics and dyes used are more harmful to the environment. Traditional methods tend to use more environmentally sensitive ingredients and practices.
But at the end of the day, are consumers going to spend more on something that is comparably similar? Personally, I think many people will not but there are hopefully always going to be some people who will, at least some of the time, and with education this group can be increased. In this highly consumerist society people should be considering the power of their dollar vote and reflecting on whether their buying choices reflect personal values and interests. Even occasionally, when we can afford it, we can be effective with where we put our money. And probably end up with a more valuable, long lasting, community supporting, environmentally friendly hand produced or locally produced item.
Image courtesy of Sapling Textiles https://www.saplingtextiles.com.au/