TRADITIONAL PRODUCTS FROM ARTISANS

One important role of the Associations is to create opportunities for artisans to market their crafts and bring their products within reach of the customers. In fact, these Associations were originally established as a marketing tool for businesses. The first shop was opened in Kuopio as long ago as in 1904. In 2001 the new Taito Shop chain was opened for marketing crafts. Almost all the 21 regional Crafts Associations have a shop and many of the crafts and arts centres also have their own sales establishments.

The crafts and industrial design industry shops mainly sell Finnish crafts or principally handmade items made from natural materials. The commonest products are utensils and decorative articles for the home, as well as items of clothing and costumes. Crafts make excellent gifts, reflecting ‘Finnishness’ and their regional culture, and testifying to skill. The offices and shops of the Crafts Associations constitute an important distribution channel for craft tools and raw materials.

Local Associations (Contact Information)
Taito Shops