TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES

We're more than a store. Ten Thousand Villages is a place where you can explore and connect with your global village.

From communities throughout the developing world, every inspired design is crafted with love using local materials (usually natural or recycled) and time-honoured skills by makers we have known and worked with for years.

Every purchase improves the lives of makers by supporting their craft and providing a fair, stable income.

We offer a way for you to become part of the story, to shop your values and give gifts with meaning.

Because this is bigger than us.

We work with artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed, and who have a basic skill that enables them to make a quality product. A majority of the artisan groups employ women, and many also include disabled people. The products they make reflect their rich cultural heritage and traditional skills.

Fair prices are determined in conversation with the artisans and other people who live and work in their community. We believe it is very important that the artisans who make the products we buy have a say in what they think is fair pay.

All products are paid for in full by the time they leave the country of origin. We generally pay 50% in advance when we first place an order and then pay the rest when the artisan group tells us that the shipment is ready to leave their country. We believe it is important to pay artisans in advance so they can afford to pay for basic daily needs.

What is Fair Trade?


Fair Trade is a way of buying and selling products that makes sure the people who produce them—especially in developing countries—get paid fairly and work in safe conditions.

It represents a partnership based on dialogue, transparency and respect, which seeks greater equity in international trade.

Fair Trade is based on the principle that trade should have a conscience and proves that greater justice in world trade is possible. It highlights the need for change in the rules and practice of conventional trade and shows how a successful business can also put people before profit.

The Goals of Fair Trade:

  • To improve the livelihood and well-being of disadvantaged artisans, especially women, by providing employment opportunities and market access.

  • To strengthen artisan groups by paying a fair price for their products and by providing continuity in the trading relationship.

  • To protect human rights by promoting social justice, sound environmental practices and economic security.
Learn About WFTO

Our Logo and Name

A stamp represents the makers’ mark, the seal of approval and craftsmanship.

Lighted doors and windows reflect the life inside artisans’ homes.

A continuous line of rooftops reminds us we are all part of the global village.

Our name invites everyone into the maker-to-market movement.

Visit Our Shop

Visit our shop at the MCC Centre in Abbotsford.

102 - 33933 Gladys Avenue, Abbotsford

Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Directions