Product Development
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Product DevelopmentThe products offered by MarketPlace:Handwork of India have been shaped largely by two factors: the customers' tastes and the artisans' lives. From the very start, we used customer feedback and market analysis to shape our product line, going from quilts to apparel and into home decor. We continue to listen to our customers, responding to their evolving taste in styles and profiles.The other major influences on MarketPlace's style are the skills and needs of the artisans. Our signature hand embroidery not only lends a special touch to our clothing and home goods, but it also allows the women to work from home. Many of the artisans are mothers who must look after their small children as well as take care of domestic chores. Hand embroidery also helps artisans get a quick start in the cooperative, since the embroidery is easy to learn. MarketPlace is known for its use of designs and fabrics that reflect our Indian origins. Our clothing silhouettes adapt Asian garments for our American customers, resulting in unique pieces that are comfortable and chic. Our fabrics are also extra special. We work directly with the fabric producers to design exclusive fabrics using a variety of traditional Indian hand dyeing techniques. The large amount of hand work required serves two purposes. First of all, it provides employment for more artisans, who carve blocks, tie threads, print and dye. Secondly, it helps preserve some of India's rich textile traditions, with all their history and culture, not a machine-printed imitation. | |||||
Product development a tool for social change
