Buttonpom * com was started by Katie J. Meyers in the summer of 2005. I began sewing at the age of nine after I received a sewing basket and crosstitch supplies from her Grandmother Doris. Now, after over 12 years of much practice and patience, I have started using the secrets myGrandmother taught me to make and sell handbags and accessories. Although I intially began sewing and crafting to make my grandmother happy, I soon realized all the positive aspects that handmade goods offer compared to mass produced products. I do not only make handmade items in order to simply provide a unique alternative. I believe handmade items are a political statement! But I believe it cannot simply be explained as a dichotomy between handmade and mass produced.
Why Making and Buying Handmade Goods
is a Political Statement:* Supporting handmade designers and artists supports a system that does not advocate sweatshop labor. Shouldn't everyone receive a decent wage for the hard work they perform? Sewing is not an easy task, it takes a great deal of knowledge!
* Making and buying handmade items voices to corporations like Urban Outfitters that they cannot simply co-opt our designs in order to make a profit! By purchasing from independent designers, you are supporting individuals that come up with their own unique designs.
* Recycling vintage /previously loved items helps to create an earth friendly environment! Think of all the waste that is created by making just one handbag. The least we can do is use previously unwanted fabric/notions and create it into something useful!
* Everything is deeply political: from what you purchase to the stores you shop at. It is all a political statement. So why not start by purchasing from a group of individuals that you can trust with quality and expertise!Disagree? Let's talk! I love to hear other's opinions on this subject.
Agree? Got more to add to the list? Let's talk too :)