Krama wheel is a great new initiative that creates a cycle of charity, from a Cambodian krama scarf to a school uniform for a Cambodian child. Rachel Hand finds out how it works.
What is krama wheel?
Krama wheel was launched in September 2012 with the aim of selling handcrafted Cambodian scarves to empower women and children.
Anyone can buy a krama gingham scarf through the website (www.kramawheel.com), and for every scarf sold a Cambodian child is given a hand-sewn school uniform.
READ MORE: Women in Progress – Global Mamas
Why is school uniform important?
In Cambodia, children are not allowed to go to school without a uniform and this is a barrier that prevents many children fulfilling their potential through education.
By giving a child a school uniform, every person who buys a scarf is opening up the world of education and therefore the possibility of a better life for these children.
Fair Trade Scarf Style
Every scarf sold by krama wheel is handmade by a Cambodian weaver who is paid fairly and is therefore better able to support her family.
Additionally for each scarf sold, a local seamstress is paid to sew a school uniform. In Cambodia weavers and seamstresses are most often women, so scarf purchases support these women as well as the children.
The scarves are unique handmade items. Each piece is hand-loomed by weavers in Cambodia’s Takéo province, the cotton is hand-dyed and the fringe is hand-knotted. The final touch is added by a disabled artisan who sews on the krama wheel label.
As krama wheel founder Roni Sivan explains, “Scarves are universal and versatile, and we are excited to continue to bring both men and women fresh, responsibly-crafted items from parts of the world they otherwise might not reach.”
Krama Scarves named after Children
If you have visited Cambodia you may have seen krama scarves. The distinctive gingham design is characteristic, but its versatility means it can be worn with many styles.
READ MORE: Beaches of Cambodia
The scarves are available in a range of designs and colours. Each scarf is named after a child who is supported by krama wheel’s partner humanitarian organization on the ground in Cambodia.
For example, there is the purple doum scarf, named after Doum, aged 12, whose ambition is to become a teacher, and the sami scarf, available in three colours, named after Sami, aged 11, whose ambition is to become a doctor.
A Cycle of Positive Change
Krama wheel’s philosophy is to create “a cycle of positive change in the world, one scarf at a time.” Every scarf bought is part of this cycle, from the weaving of a scarf to the gift of education for a child.
The krama scarves are suitable for women and men. Buy one for yourself and one as a gift so someone else can learn about krama wheel and wear a scarf with a story.
Contribute to this cycle of positive change now at www.kramawheel.com
What’s your favourite stylish Fair Trade clothing item or accessory? Tell us in the comments below!
