Sierra Tribal Clutch

Artisan Profile

Laos is a country of diverse ethnic groups, each with unique and highly adept craft and artisan skills, but the pressures of modern life and the availability of cheap factory made imports have resulted in Lao people giving up their crafts and their rural livelihoods. As a result, many of the crafts of Laos are vanishing art forms. SLATE + SALT works closely with artisan groups in Laos to create items that fit modern, natural lifestyles while still retaining the spirit of traditional craftsmanship. Guided by the principles of fair trade, they work to create employment opportunities for villagers, especially women, and to reduce poverty, and each product is made and finished in the villages.

These beautiful tribal bags are made using hand-woven and hand-dyed saa (mulberry) bark. From dyeing and weaving to the finishing work, the value-added income stays in the village. In addition to using natural fibers, materials and dyes, the villagers are committed to reducing waste and upcycling, when possible. Bags are lined with remnant fabrics and fibers. Nothing goes to waste and everything is done to consciously reduce waste and protect the environment.