Tatami Sea Grass Purses - The Beginning, Cambodia - 1/7/08

The creation of Sea Grass purses started in a war-torn Cambodian village surrounding the temples of Angkor Watt during 1996.  "Sreh" was now the widow of a poor family of 8 and very ill.  Out of shear duress, Sreh started to style her traditonal Tatami Sea Grass mat into the shape of a purse.

With no market or interest in her idea, she prevailed.  These purses became popular with local women, then Sreh was discovered by an American who helped her with methods for creating sustainable income.  She was assisted with her medical issues and has now recovered.  Her daughters sew and her son helps in the development of new purse styles.

Now in 2008, over 200 Cambodians in great need of income, education and a healthy work environment are creating these fashionable and durable purses.  After going through such ravage in their country, these wonderful women and men are paid 2 - 3 times what is considered "Fair Trade" wages plus benefits (unheard of in most Cambodian companies).

Buying these original Tatami style purses is your way of rewarding innovation and instilling self esteem & pride back into these deserving people of Cambodia.

On behalf of Sreh and all the wonderful Artisans,

"Thank you for helping us live a better life." 

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Thank You, Liz and Mark