Category: Why

Buying American made has become such a part of my life that I’ve found myself struggling to explain myself – I tend to be incredibly inarticulate about things I am passionate about and frequently end up stumbling all over my explanation. Not ideal. Thankfully, many of my favorite makers were far more articulate when I asked them why they chose to manufacture in America.

It is so satisfying to be able to provide jobs and keep people in business. We love to support our local economy and fellow artisans. We appreciate the ability to oversee our manufacturing and quality. Also, the relationships we’ve made are the best part of what we do – there is a human side of manufacturing, and we believe that is translated into what you wear.
The Podolls

We wanted to keep our ethics in tact. We don’t take the easy route. We had to try it – and make it work. People are starting to care about made in the USA. We can make a difference. We care about what we buy. We believe in a local economy and less environmental impact. America is young and quilts are a deep part of American history. Our families have quilted for generations. Staying here felt right. It also allows us to make sure our products meet our standards – quality control would be incredibly difficult overseas. We like to see the people we work with – we get to know them and build relationships with them.
Hopewell Workshop

To me there is no other choice. I believe in the country and as we grow, we give many people opportunities here. I’ve seen too many people lose their jobs, end up in a rut and see their futures get whittled down. A little bit of effort can help people make a better living and live better lives. Why wouldn’t we try 100% to do that?
Conway Electric

Too many reasons to mention – but mainly because I can guarantee the quality of everything I produce locally. Every product I sell is sewn here in LA, either by me, or by my sewing assistant who works from her sewing studio just a few miles away.
Cotton & Flax

I believe in keeping the production of P&O items American-made to help our local and national economy and I am able to control the quality of my goods by keeping them local. If everyone spent 5% more on US made products, we could create 1 million jobs.
Preston & Olivia

We’re proud to support our domestic garment industry.
Storq

For every $1 OF GOODS produced in the USA, an additional $1.43 is generated for the economy. It can be really, really hard to produce in America, but it’s easier to create beauty products than some other products. The more we support domestic production, the more it will grow.
One Love Organics & S.W. Basics – Why beauty products should be American Made

I spent the last few weeks thinking, and reading, and talking, and spending very little time on the internet. I didn’t answer emails, I didn’t check twitter, and I didn’t work, even when the urge struck. I spent much of 2014 feeling like a hamster on a wheel, always working but seemingly getting nowhere, and I needed a break. I needed to allow myself to be bored.

After two weeks off, you’d think I’d be ready to get back to it – the first Monday after the new year seems to be the true New Years Day when it comes to resolutions, doesn’t it? But I’m feeling a bit slow today and judging from my instagram feed, I am not the only one. I spent some time looking back on the last year of posts this morning… and found myself scrolling through the maker and brand interviews to get to the advice. I’m feeling a little more motivated, and I hope you’ll feel the same. Happy New Year!

“School, workshops, and internships are great as a jumping off point but there is no substitute for getting out there and doing. You’ll fail often that but that’s when you’ll learn the most.”
CAM Jewelry

“Making is great but if you want to make a living you must find a market that wants what you’re making and you have to figure out how to get your stuff to that market. If you can do that you will be more successful than your wildest dreams. If you’re out there struggling, reach out to people and ask for help. People want to help and want you to succeed.”
Conway Electric

“Don’t listen to the naysayers. If you believe in your idea and think you have what it takes to get it done, go for it! But be prepared because once you launch, your business is your baby – it’s wonderful, but it will take everything you have.”
Common Good

“You have to be ok with carving your own path. Responsible production takes a lot of constant assessment, you are constantly making and remaking a commitment to yourself.”
Heidi Merrick

“Find a group of supportive makers and creatives, and don’t be afraid to ask for help! Other makers in your community have a wealth of knowledge, even if they are working in an entirely different medium than yours. Finding a like-minded group of creative friends can be a life-saver when you run a creative business, and most people are more than happy to lend a hand when they can.”
Cotton & Flax

“Take a leap of faith. It’s what life is all about and even if something does not work out, you will have learned from it and that means you’re growing and changing. If we’re stagnant, we’re nothing. Your instincts are usually right.”
Pierrepont Hicks

“Listen to your gut and do what feels right to you – never lose sight of your vision.”
Giejo

“‘Don’t give up’ covers a lot… Sometimes you just have to focus on putting one foot in front of the other and that can truly help.”
Maison du Soir