Most of the artisans we collaborate with are individuals I know personally from my humanitarian work in Lebanon and Greece, as well as through networking with colleagues working on similar projects in other countries. This deep personal connection with NGOs and artisans ensures that we make the greatest possible impact and focus our efforts where they are most needed. By eliminating middlemen, we guarantee that artisans receive the full value of their work.

In addition to the relationships I’ve already established, I am constantly seeking new collaborations to represent a broader range of refugee experiences and to focus on regions outside of my direct experience, such as Ukraine, South Sudan, and Palestine. Every partnership is formed through careful research, meetings, and quality control, with our primary goal being direct collaboration with the artisans. We do not dictate how the products should be designed or produced—their skills and knowledge are central to the process, and we ensure that working conditions are fair and respectful.

The most sustainable option would be not to produce new goods at all, but our goal is to balance production with a responsible approach to materials and consumption.

At The -able, we prioritize recycling materials and creating high-quality, durable products.

For example, we use recycled plastic from refugee camps to make key rings, repurpose plastic from shampoo bottles in Ukraine, and create toiletry and computer bags from rubber boats found on the Greek islands. We also recycle embroidered fabric from training classes in Palestinian refugee camps and use plastic bags to crochet bags in Lebanon.

All our tea towels, wall hangings, and tote bags are crafted from deadstock materials.

To further minimize our environmental impact, we use FSC-certified paper for packaging, recycle all cardboard and packaging materials for future shipments, and strive to reduce our travel, with most communication conducted digitally.

Travel only occurs when essential for collaboration and the development of new products.

Ideally, I would love to specify a fixed percentage of the price that goes directly to the artisan, and that was my intention when I started The -able. However, the reality is more complex. Some products are more profitable than others, and the situation is nuanced. Certain items can be produced quickly, providing artisans with a wage well above the median in their country, while other products may barely break even but are crucial for preserving craft traditions or supporting artisans in particularly challenging circumstances.

Each product contributes to an ecosystem where they support one another, with the ultimate focus on creating the greatest possible value for the artisans. As a non-profit company, The -able reinvests all profits into new products, marketing, and the development of new partnerships. There are no investors passively earning money and no employees receiving bonuses. Everything we do is centered around supporting the artisans, securing their wages, and creating new opportunities for their future.

For instance, we’ve used surplus funds to purchase equipment and materials for artisans, enabling them to continue their work under better conditions. We’ve bought equipment for Soli, who creates drawings for us, funded English lessons for a partner NGO in Athens, and supported the purchase of sewing machines in Lebanon.

While I can’t provide an exact percentage, I assure you that my focus is always on maximizing the value that goes to the artisans. Any growth at The -able will directly benefit them.

We ensure fair payment and good working conditions by taking an active role in every aspect of production. I have personally visited the workshops where the products are made and reviewed the finances of the NGOs we collaborate with to ensure that artisans receive the majority of the payment. We always pay for the craft upfront, so no artisan has to wait for their products to sell before receiving payment—a common practice among many others. I take on the financial risk so that the artisans don't have to.

In some cases, I also cover the cost of materials, such as fabric, before the products are even made, ensuring that artisans are not put in difficult situations. Additionally, I always pay for shipping, customs, and the production of prototypes, even if these prototypes do not go into full production. This ensures that artisans are never left in a bind and can work without pressure or financial worries.

We also ensure that they are paid significantly above the minimum wage in their country and that they receive compensation even when they are sick, allowing them to take care of their health and responsibilities without fear of financial insecurity. Our approach is rooted in dignity and respect, aiming to create a working environment that supports the well-being of artisans, ensures their financial independence, and prioritizes their psychological needs over profit and speed.