La Peony is characterized by maintaining continuity in the social projects it initiates and achieving the proposed objectives. Part of the research carried out in the different artisan communities we collaborate with aimed to recognize and communicate the support needs that these artisan groups face as significant challenges to continue developing within this beautiful tradition.
In May, we took the initiative to begin visits to the participating communities to present the results of the research they contributed to, showcase the most relevant findings, and suggest some solutions in which La Peony will contribute to support them.
As we shared in previous articles, the most urgent needs identified through interviews and observation exercises were:
- Training: An integral training program is needed that covers both advanced weaving techniques and skills in design, marketing, business management, and the use of new technologies. This program should be tailored to each artisan’s needs, considering their different levels of experience and individual circumstances.
- Support for Marketing: Assistance is required to promote local craftsmanship through the creation of online sales platforms, participation in fairs and craft events, and the search for new markets. Priority should be given to establishing marketing networks that include digital strategies.
- Access to Raw Materials: The availability of quality raw materials (mulberry leaves) at accessible prices must be guaranteed through the creation of support systems for raw material production.
- Awareness of Rights: It’s essential to carry out awareness campaigns to inform artisans about laws protecting their work and to promote the protection of intellectual property.
- Financial Support: Financial assistance is needed for acquiring equipment and tools, improving working conditions, and facilitating the development of their businesses.
As part of our ongoing efforts, LPC not only shared this report but also reinitiated training sessions with artisans focused on key topics and their requested areas. Training our artisans is vital because continuous improvement starts within our processes and with our most valuable allies; it also brings significant benefits to them, us, and our consumers. An example of this is products designed by silk artisans based on the fashion trends course we offered in 2024, which we now see realized in innovative pieces and trending colors.
Traditionally, handcrafted silk pieces have been dresses, capes, blouses, or scarves. However, this time, the artisans took a bold step toward innovation by designing new types of pieces, such as pants and coordinated two-piece sets (pants and blouses) in fresh, modern styles. These innovative creations were also highlighted in international presentations, where the artisans demonstrated their creative talent on a global stage. Congratulations, Artisans!
On May 11, we had the pleasure of returning to the beautiful Zapotec mountains with our friends, the silk artisans from the northern Sierra of Oaxaca, in San Pedro Cajonos. This time, our training focused on additional topics they requested, as they recognized the opportunities available to enhance the quality of service and products offered through the Silk Sanctuary and the handcrafted silk garments created entirely by hand.
The focus was on developing effective processes to deliver high-value customer service and sales, aiming for visitors to have a positive experience at the sanctuary and in purchasing their artisanal products. Most importantly, they should understand the value, tradition, and the arduous work behind all this craftsmanship, be aware of it, educate themselves, and promote support for handmade work.
During this workshop, they discussed the importance of defining a unique value proposition and ensuring all artisans master and communicate it consistently to consumers. The value proposition refers to what the customer values beyond the product itself and can be understood through two points: the product, which includes size, materials, care instructions, and price, and the differentiators, which include the unique design, the artisanal process behind the work, pieces that cannot be found elsewhere, among others.
They were also guided in developing formal processes, including policies, steps to follow, tasks, responsibilities, and other key elements that would help them build a more structured and higher-value business. Examples and reflections on designing the customer service process were shared. The artisans worked in pairs to design and propose their own processes, rules, detailed steps, and justify their proposals with examples and personal experiences.
In these spaces, artisans have the opportunity to share ideas, listen to others, and work as a team—opportunities they don’t often have due to their working methods or beliefs about the scope of their activities.
At the end of the workshop, the artisans shared their process designs, outlined the next steps, and refined their ideas to develop a collaborative framework. This shared structure was embraced by all, with a collective commitment to adhere to it, ensuring the cooperative’s growth and success.
We look forward to returning soon with additional impactful training sessions, further supporting the preservation of valuable traditions that generate income for these communities and their families.
Thank you, San Pedro Cajonos! Thank you, Artisans!
Alma Cristina Gómez Macfarland
International Artisans Consultant
