I don't think the world will be saved by efficiency

People Tree is the epitome of a clothing company out to save the world.

In their words, "For over twenty years, People Tree has partnered with Fair Trade artisans and farmers in the developing world to produce a collection of ethical and eco fashion. Fair Trade is about creating a new way of doing business, creating access to markets and opportunities for people who live in the developing world."

They use organic cotton. They weave fabric by hand. They embroider by hand. They knit sweaters by hand. They screen print by hand.

The pragmatist in me screams, "WHY ARE YOU DOING IT BY HAND? THEY HAVE MACHINES FOR THIS!!"

Sorry, my thoughts are kind of loud.

But who are "they", these people with the machines? Um, not me. I have a sewing machine or two, but I don't have a loom or a spinning wheel, for personal use and certainly not an industrial strength one! And that's the point.

The people at People Tree wanted to employ people in rural areas, instead of forcing them to leave their families to live in the cities where the industrial-strength machines are. And I. Love. That.

If a mother can make a living wage by using her own skills in her own home-- or at least hometown, families will be stronger, and society will be better. So these hand-knitted sweaters? These hand-spun threads? There's a reason for those, and I'm on board.

Plus, who can argue with this end result?!

In the documentary I watched, The True Cost, (seriously, go watch it. It's on Netflix) I loved where they showed one of People Tree's company meetings. The CEO  was visiting with some women in their production areas, telling them about the chance for one of them to visit London to represent the manufacturers and see the other side of the business, the customers, the stores, and the end result of their labors. It reminded me of companies I have worked for in the past, rather than nose-to-the-grindstone sweat-shops so prevalent in textile manufacturing.

I did some hand weaving in elementary school. This is not it.

Obviously buying a hand-knitted sweater will cost you more than a machine-made acrylic one. But right now they're having a sale, and after signing up for their newsletter for an extra discount, I was able to buy a dress for $60, including international shipping! Not too bad!!

I'm not going to recommend that everyone go rush out and buy their products. In fact, a big part of the problem is our propensity to rush out and buy in the first place. But if you are already planning on making a purchase, consider shopping at People Tree.

Or just go look at their products. It's amazing what people can do.