Keeping traditional techniques alive
While Wicker Darling HQ is in Melbourne, Australia, our quirky handbags are handmade by two small, family-owned companies in the Philippines, who specialise in traditional Filipino craftsmanship.
The weaving of every handbag is done by hand, using traditional techniques that help keep local arts and crafts traditions alive. This creates employment opportunities for people - particularly women - who live in the communities where we produce our bags and source our rattan.
Many of our weavers are mothers or older women who are now able to supplement their family income while working from home.
Our rattan is sustainably harvested by hand from neighbouring co-ops and farmers, to minimise carbon footprint and maximise benefits to local communities.
Because of our business model, we are able to provide stable, ongoing work year-round, ensuring that weavers are employed continuously even through the lowseason when demand dwindles.
"We are thankful for your orders because what sustains their livelihood is continuous work at a fair price. We have negotiated with our wicker weavers and workers to commit to giving them a livingwage."