I've worked with ethnic crafts since 1988 in a variety of retail capacties and as a technical assistant to artists and small importers. My main focus has been in how crafts can contribute to economic development and allow people to live and work in their communities doing what they love and receiving fair wages. I support fair trade, the use of recycled materials, and those who employ sustainable practices. I now focus on textiles and fiber art as the place where this discussion starts. These themes are at the core of my website and blog: www.rayela.com.

I sell vintage ethnic textiles, handmade supplies and things that I make in my shop here.

In 2010, I launched an organization called TAFA: The Textile and Fiber Art List, www.tafalist.com. (Currently in redevelopment.)

In January, 2014, I launched a second site, Artizan Made: www.artizanmade.com. This site is a collective of handmade shops from around the world and include studio artists, fair traders and ethical importers. Handmade vintage and supplies are also welcome. They are invited to join based on the quality and originality of their products.

Questions? Send me a convo and I'll happily answer. Thank you for your interest!