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Mai Vietnamese Handicrafts

Mai Vietnamese Handicrafts is an income generating and educational project for poor and disadvantaged women, which provides employment and training, and promotes self-reliance amongst disadvantaged families and ethnic minorities in Southern Vietnam.

Mai Vietnamese Handicrafts

Mai has established itself as the primary marketing agent for neglected women in the rural areas by active product development and by selling Vietnamese handicrafts to the local and international market. In addition to economic self-reliance, Mai seeks to provide support and social development as well. The products are environmentally friendly and made in compliance with Fair Trade practices.

Bamboo bowls

Mai’s bamboo bowls are handcrafted from bamboo coil, lacquer, and rattan. The process of making it begins in Northern Vietnam, where bamboo coils are created. In southern Vietnam, the process continues with application of glue on the product to make it stronger. The surface is then polished smooth, and any tiny holes are filled in. The surface is covered again with glue and paint, then polished and painted repeatedly to create the final, dazzling product!

Creating these bamboo bowls allows Vietnamese artisans to continue traditional bamboo techniques from generation to generation, as well as improving and adapting products to fit market needs.

Tape Measure Toys

The Vietnamese women that create the animal tape measures are tailors who practice their traditional sewing techniques. The process begins with printing and cutting the fabric in the shape of an animal. It is then sewn as a bag and stuffed with cotton and the retractable tape measure. A cute yet practical item, perfect for kids and adults alike !

View products by Mai Vietnamese Handicrafts