My original home business was set up in 2005, a space where my concerns for the environment and good working conditions (especially for marginalized women) meet. As such, everything here has been ethically-sourced and fairly traded. I will not stock any item that we are not prepared to give to those nearest and dearest to us with a clear conscience.
Hankies became an obvious choice after a rogue paper tissue ruined a load of washing. I trawled the department stores for child-size pockets but found none. I was about to negotiate with a factory on manufacturing boys' hankies when I discovered the impact of conventional cotton production on the environment. Since then, I had focused on using organic and more sustainable fabrics.
I also fell in love with the versatile organic cotton string bag. We used to collect at least seven plastic bags from our weekly shop. Our string bags have prevented thousands of bags going into landfill, or choking marine animals.
Originally designed to be a manageable business around the needs of the family (illness and SEN), it was helpful in keeping me sane when the circumstances became very trying. However, since 2018 and after a very demoralising period of job-searching, I returned to spending more time teaching at universities, and sometimes in a different part of the world. I still enjoy making and selling hankies, though.
Feel free to 'chat' about any of the issues raised.