I know you’re all thinking about Christmas shopping by now. Well, I’m ready to get started on my annual gift hunt – I’ve even bought the wrapping paper! In my search for special gifts and thrifty treats I stumbled upon Discovered. This online marketplace recommended to me and I’m glad I took the time to check it out.
I wouldn’t mind owning this beautiful embroidered cushion myself!
Like Etsy but connecting you with craftspeople all over the world, this online marketplace lists finely crafted gifts and homewares. You can discover handmade products by artisans from emerging countries such as India, Morocco and South Africa. But the main difference is that Discovered takes the idea of Fairtrade one step further; you can buy handicrafts direct from the maker.
And this embroidered handbag too – can you believe it costs less than £20?
The artisans on Discovered design, create and sell beautiful accessories, bags, jewellery and home decoration items. Every product that is sold on Discovered has its own, unique story and you won’t just find it in any other store. In addition, for every item they sell the artisans will receive a fair price because the supply chain is shortened; from the maker, via Discovered and to you.
I love chai and these hand-painted tea glasses cost less than £15
Just like my idea of buying the a charity gift of a goat or a pile of poo that I blogged about last month, the idea of giving to someone who really needs it is exactly what Discovered believe in. If you buy a gift at Discovered, it’s not only for you to give to a friend or family member, but you also give to an artisan who lives on the other side of the world, because you help them to earn their own income.
Know someone who loves scarves? This batik design would be perfect for them!
The reassuring thing about this marketplace is that the Discovered team has actually seen, touched, smelled and worn each of the products, and approved the quality with their ‘stamp of approval’. Gifts can be crafted using local, natural and recycled materials and will always be made in a safe environment with the welfare and wages of the artisan of utmost importance.
How about a handmade bicycle pannier that works as a backpack too?
Basically this blog post is one big wish list of things that I would love to own from Discovered! Seeing as the products are being shipped directly to you from far-flung destinations, it’s a good idea to start shopping for Christmas early if you want to order something from Discovered. The delivery could take around 5-21 days and making the product could take more than 3 days if you want a special customised order so have a look at the website now and get your Christmas list started today!
What do you think of this idea? Would you prefer to buy direct from the maker? Have you shopped with Discovered before? Please let me know your thoughts in the comments below or tweet me @Cassiefairy.
This article is a sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content 🙂
