Woodworker with a curly wood shaving mustache and crossed arms holding a mallet and awl

How LocalWe Curates Its Collection of Unique, Handcrafted Items: An Insider's Look

In an era where mass production reigns supreme, and many items feel impersonal and indistinguishable, LocalWe offers a refreshing alternative. LocalWe curates a collection of unique, handcrafted items, exclusively made in the USA, each telling its own distinct story. Unlike platforms like Etsy, where artisans from all over the globe showcase their wares, every item in our collection is a testament to American craftsmanship. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how we curate our remarkable assortment.

Deep-Dive Research

Our journey begins with in-depth research. Our team is constantly on the hunt for emerging American artisans at local craft fairs, and trade shows that champion homegrown craftsmanship. We delve into local networks, community suggestions, and industry publications to uncover hidden treasures. Our friends often suggest makers for consideration on the site, and many makers reach out to us directly.

Rigorous Vetting

Not every handcrafted item makes the cut. We seek artisans who are not only skilled but also deeply passionate about their craft, prioritizing quality and sustainability. We also love makers who give back to community causes. Our selection process involves:

  • Reviewing the artisan's backstory and commitment to their art.
  • Understanding the materials and techniques employed.
  • Ensuring every product is genuinely handcrafted and made in the USA.
Smiling young woman artisan listening to the sound of her ceramic works

Emphasis on Quality Over Quantity

At LocalWe, quality and value trump all else. While the allure of offering a vast range of products is strong, we're unwavering in our commitment to showcasing only the best. To this end, we sample and rigorously test items to ensure they meet our lofty standards.

Building Relationships with Artisans

Our engagement with artisans goes beyond mere transactions. We actively nurture and cultivate relationships with them, celebrating their stories and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their diligence. This bond ensures we consistently offer our customers standout products.

Telling the Story

Behind every handcrafted item lies a unique tale – be it the inspiration that sparked its creation or the hurdles the artisan overcame to bring their vision to life. We place immense emphasis on sharing these narratives, offering our customers not just a product, but a rich tapestry of stories to connect with. This is why we share our artisan’s stories.

Funny carpenter in a watch cap drinking tea from a mug

Customer Feedback is Key

Though we pride ourselves on our discerning curation, we always value feedback from our cherished community. Be it praise for a particular item or suggestions on artisans we should collaborate with, we're all ears. This feedback mechanism ensures our collection is dynamic, always reflecting the tastes and preferences of our patrons.

Continuous Learning and Evolution

The realm of handcrafted, artisan-made products is in perpetual flux. New techniques arise, age-old methods see a revival, and innovation remains a constant. We pledge to stay updated with the latest trends, ensuring our collection is forever fresh and relevant.

More than Just a Shopping Destination

LocalWe is more than just a shopping destination; it's a homage to American artisanship, a commitment to unparalleled quality, and a conduit linking customers to the skilled individuals behind each masterpiece. Our meticulous curation process is a labor of love, and we're elated to present the best of American craftsmanship to our community. Whether you're in search of a one-of-a-kind gift or a statement piece for your personal trove, we trust you'll discover something that strikes a chord, fully appreciating the care, skill, and passion poured into its creation.

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