Ezistock is a handmade crafts outlet based in Chiangmai, Thailand. It promotes the work of local artisans by directly connecting them to overseas markets so that they can earn fair wages and be able to support their families.  What's more, all the artisans "made a pledge to use only sustainable raw materials along with eco-friendly harvesting and production processes."

Artisan profile : Doungnapa Wongpae
The artisans are all incredibly talented. They make anything from Hill tribe bags to textile products, lacquer ware, ceramics, paintings and naturally jewelry.  Many of the pieces have a distinctive Thai style.

Artisan profile : Cha- Aim
Their range has considerably expanded since I last featured them.  I found it very difficult to pick out just a few of my favorites such is the quality.  So I highly recommend readers browse through the site.

Ezistock's blog  has a wonderful collection of posts about each artisan.  The profiles explain how they came by their passion and often includes pictures of the artisans at work. Some of their stories are inspiring like that of Sakda Phetdarakul who courageously struck out on his own as a benjarong (traditional Thai hand painted porcelain ware) artisan with very little start up funds.



Others like artist Innop Wonga-nut luckily had the support of his older siblings.


Some of the artisans have years of experience behind them. One was actually taught by his father-in-law, a skilled leather silhouette artisan.  Aphisit Jromsris explained that for some reason, the women like his wife in leather work families do not do the carving but handle the coloring and other processes instead.


A number of the crafts were made by women from the hill tribes.  These cushion covers with bright blue embroidery are absolutely divine.


Giveaway
To enter the giveaway, please make a comment below. Make sure you leave contact info if you do not have an online shop or blog.

Subscribers need to click on the post title to come to my actual blog. Scroll down and enter your comment. Pick Name/URL. If you don't have a store or blog, leave the URL blank. Please leave an email at the very least so I can contact you easily if you win.

This giveaway is international.

Extra entries if you become or are a blog subscriber or follower etc. If you also do shout outs about this giveaway, those will count as additional entries too! Please say so in the comments.

It ends in a week's time at 6 pm EST Monday, February 25 , 2013. I will pick the winner randomly and announce the results as soon as possible after. So be sure to leave a contact email if you don't have an online link or make sure you come back and check! Otherwise I will redraw in a week. 
Good luck!

Before You Go: 
______________________________
Original Post by THE BEADING GEM
Jewelry Making Tips - Jewelry Business Tips