Artisan Anger: Cheap Imports Undermine Cornish Crafts

The crafting community in Cornwall is grappling with a concerning trend: the influx of cheap, mass-produced items being passed off as genuine handmade local crafts. Artisans report witnessing traders bulk-buying goods online and then selling them at significantly inflated prices at events marketed as Cornish craft fairs. This practice is not only misleading to consumers but also deeply demoralizing for those who dedicate themselves to creating original pieces.

Genuine makers express anger and frustration, noting that these unscrupulous sellers can attract customers with lower prices due to their bulk purchasing. The mark-up on these imported goods can be as high as five times their original cost. This situation is seen as devaluing the hard work and skill involved in true craftsmanship, making it difficult for authentic local producers to compete and thrive in their own communities.

In response, organizers of Cornish craft fairs are strengthening their vetting processes. They are actively working to verify the authenticity of traders' wares, aiming to uphold the quality and integrity of their events. Some fairs are implementing policies like an 85% handmade rule, allowing for complementary items but prioritizing predominantly locally crafted goods to protect the reputation of Cornwall's vibrant artisan scene.