FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the questions we are frequently asked here at WorldCrafts. If you have additional questions, please email us at worldcrafts@wmu.org.
What is WorldCrafts and when did it start?
WorldCrafts is a compassion ministry of WMU. As a fair trade ministry, WorldCrafts works with artisan groups both in the United States and throughout the world. We work with artisan groups to develop viable products, and then we market those products here in the United States. Through our partnerships, artisans are able to break free of poverty as they earn a living wage.
WorldCrafts began in 1996 with only one artisan group—Thai Country Trim (TCT). TCT had been established by our local contacts in Thailand years earlier. Today, WorldCrafts works with multiple artisan groups to import and sell hundreds of beautiful handcrafted items from countries around the globe. We are committed to our artisans and seek to ensure that our partnerships are sustainable. In fact, more than 20 years later, we are still partnering with Thai Country Trim!
What’s the mission and vision of WorldCrafts?
WorldCrafts and its local partners develop fair-trade businesses among impoverished people around the world. Our vision is to offer an income with dignity and the hope of everlasting life to every person on earth.
How are WorldCrafts artisans paid?
WorldCrafts always pays our artisans in full. WorldCrafts artisans receive a fair wage for every piece whether it sells or not. We also pay all shipping and customs charges. Our utmost concern is holistic lifestyle improvement for the artisans.
Are the artisans paid fairly?
We partner with artisan leaders around the globe who abide by fair trade principles to ensure that the products we purchase are produced ethically in a safe environment where artisans receive fair and prompt wages.
How can I tell others about WorldCrafts?
We've created multiple resources you can use to share WorldCrafts with others:
- Lead others to pray for WorldCrafts artisans using our monthly calendars.
- Gift someone special with a handcrafted WorldCrafts product and download one of our free gift cards.
- Take our online course WorldCrafts: An Overview to learn more about WorldCrafts and be equipped to teach others about the ministry.
- Set up a WorldCrafts display at a special event.
- Host a virtual WorldCrafts market for your friends and family across the country.
- Create a WorldCrafts market and invite others to shop WorldCrafts.
- Teach people of all ages about WorldCrafts and the transformative power of fair trade.
- Host an offering to help provide the funding needed to pay our artisans a sustainable living wage.
Are there other ways I can support WorldCrafts?
Every time you shop WorldCrafts, you make a difference in the lives of global artisans. You may also choose to give a tax-deductible contribution online or through the mail to help provide the funding needed to pay our artisans a sustainable living wage, bring their products to the United States, and create opportunities to market them for sale.
What is your return policy? What if I don't like the product I have ordered?
WorldCrafts guarantees your satisfaction. If you are not satisfied for any reason, within 30 days of purchase simply return your product with a copy of your original packaging slip marked RETURN, and you will receive a full refund. Shipping and handling charges are not refunded.
Please note that items purchased on clearance (50% discount) are not returnable.
How can we become an artisan group?
If you are interested in starting a WorldCrafts group, send us an email at worldcrafts@wmu.org and we will email product submission guidelines.