How we Avoid Risk with Artisan Made Products

The unfortunate reality is that many indigenous communities keeping traditional textile techniques alive are often located in countries that have been negatively affected by colonialism. This is certainly the case in Guatemala, which can lead to some unavoidable challenges such as; frequent political protests, natural disasters, and economic instability which can affect artisan communities in different ways at different times. Over the last 10 years, we have implemented a few strategies to mitigate the risk of producing here.

Have a Plan B for your Handmade Product

Having a Plan B supplier option is a good strategy no matter if you produce with artisans or large factories. It can be risky to rely too heavily on just one artisan in the unfortunate case that something happens to delay their production. It is so much more difficult to pivot to a new artisan partner once production is in motion. We always quote with 2-3 different artisans when exploring new fabric techniques for our clients. We usually make physical samples with at least 2 artisans as well, just in case.

Design a Diverse Product Line

We can do our best to anticipate potential delays to production, but sometimes there are situations out of our hands. In the case that an order for products from one artisan group will be delivered late, it’s great to be able to have the option to pivot marketing campaigns or sales strategies to another product category that hasn’t been affected. When a client approaches us, we usually encourage developing products with a diverse range of textiles from Guatemala so that their production isn’t reliant on one artisan community. It also makes your line more interesting!

We offer a variety of woven fabrics made in different communities in Guatemala to help diversify your artisan made product line.

Add a Buffer to your Product Launch Calendar

We usually add a least a 2 week buffer to the delivery date we give our clients. There is nothing more frustrating or detrimental to potential sales than receiving a late order. This two week buffer allows us to trouble shoot potential delays that are out of our hands before it’s too late!

Have On the Ground Support for your Artisan Partners

When unanticipated events happen, it’s so much easier to navigate them when you have someone to represent your brand on the ground to keep you informed and take action right away! We share more benefits to having on the ground support in Guatemala on our recent blog where you can learn more!

Casa Flor Director, Flory and Owner, Averie checking on a custom textile.

We know that running an ethical business can be challenging. We’re here to make producing with artisans in Guatemala as smooth as possible, so our clients can focus on everything else it takes to grow a successful brand.