Est. 1989 · Celebrating 35 Years in Fair Trade
Empowering Artisans,
Preserving Craft
Sana Hastakala empowers marginalized craft producers through traditional skills and modern techniques — fostering income, dignity, and lasting community change across Nepal.
"Every piece tells a story of hands that shaped it, traditions that inspired it, and communities that thrive because of it."
Our Mission
Craft That Creates Change
Sana Hastakala empowers underprivileged artisans through business and community programs, aiming to uplift their socio-economic conditions. We sell high-quality traditional crafts in national and international markets — always through fair trade practices.
Based in Lalitpur, Nepal, we operate with a dedicated in-house team alongside a network of over 1,200 producers. Founded in 1989 with UNICEF backing, we have grown into a self-sufficient NGO — a testament to the resilience and talent of the communities we serve.
Read our full storyEstablished
Years in Fair Trade
Producers
WFTO Guaranteed
What We Stand For
Four principles that shape every decision we make — from the producers we work with to the products we deliver.
Fair Trade Practices
All our products are 100% WFTO guaranteed, ensuring every artisan receives fair wages and works in safe, dignified conditions.
Community Development
We run business and community programs designed to uplift the socio-economic conditions of artisan families across Nepal.
Living Heritage
We blend time-honoured craft skills with modern techniques, keeping Nepal's artisan traditions alive for future generations.
Quality You Can Trust
Every piece is handmade in Nepal and carefully quality-checked — each one carrying the authentic mark of skilled human hands.
10 Principles of Fair Trade
All our products are 100% WFTO guaranteed. We uphold all 10 principles of fair trade — from creating opportunities for disadvantaged producers to respecting cultural identity and the environment. This isn't a label we carry; it's a standard we live by.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything buyers, importers, and conscious consumers ask us about our products, our certification, and how fair trade actually works.
What is Sana Hastakala?
Sana Hastakala is a WFTO-guaranteed fair trade organisation founded in Lalitpur, Nepal in 1989 with UNICEF backing. We work with over 1,200 artisan producers to create handmade ceramics, textiles, felt goods, and home accessories for international markets. Our mission is to sustain artisan livelihoods, preserve Nepali craft traditions, and connect skilled producers with global buyers through ethical trade.
What does "WFTO Guaranteed" mean?
WFTO Guaranteed means Sana Hastakala is independently audited by the World Fair Trade Organization — the only global body that certifies entire organisations (not just individual products) against 10 Fair Trade Principles. This covers fair wages, safe working conditions, gender equity, no child labour, transparency, and environmental responsibility. Our status is renewed through regular third-party monitoring.
How is WFTO different from the Fairtrade (FLO) label?
Fairtrade (FLO) certifies specific products — typically commodities like coffee or cocoa. WFTO certifies the entire organisation across all its practices and all its products. Every item Sana Hastakala produces is fair trade by default — you don't need to check product by product. It is a more comprehensive standard, applied at the organisational level.
Are Sana Hastakala products genuinely handmade?
Yes — entirely. Every piece is shaped, stitched, or woven by human hands. No mould-cast mass production, no machine embroidery. Ceramics are wheel-thrown by individual potters. Felt products are hand-felted and hand-embroidered. Textiles are woven on traditional looms. Minor variations exist between pieces because each one is made by a person, not a machine.
Where exactly are your products made?
All products are made in Nepal. Our main production facility is in Ekantakuna, Lalitpur, and our showroom is in Jhamsikhel — both in the Kathmandu Valley. We also work with home-based artisans and cooperative workshops in surrounding districts. No outsourcing occurs outside Nepal.
Do you accept wholesale or bulk orders?
Yes. Wholesale and bulk ordering is central to how we work — consistent large orders are what allow us to provide artisans with reliable year-round income rather than seasonal spikes. Contact us via WhatsApp or email with your requirements and we will discuss minimum quantities, lead times, and customisation options.
Can products be customised?
Many of our ceramic and textile products can be produced in custom colours, sizes, or with bespoke detailing — available for wholesale quantities. Contact us with your specification and we will confirm feasibility, any additional lead time, and pricing.
Can I visit your workshop in Nepal?
Yes. Our showroom in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur is open Sunday to Friday, 9:30 AM–5:30 PM. Workshop visits to our Ekantakuna production facility can be arranged by appointment. If you are travelling to Kathmandu, we are happy to show you where and how your products are made.
Are your ceramic products food-safe?
Yes. All Sana Hastakala ceramics use lead-free, food-safe mineral glazes. Our stoneware and earthenware bowls, cups, mugs, and plates are designed for everyday food use. Specific guidance on dishwasher or microwave suitability varies by glaze type — contact us with your SKU for confirmation.
How can I verify your fair trade claims?
Our WFTO Guaranteed status is publicly verifiable. You can find our profile on the WFTO member directory at wfto.com. Third-party audits cover wages, working conditions, environmental practices, and governance. If you need documentation for your own sourcing compliance requirements, contact us and we will provide the relevant certificates.
Every Piece Tells a Story
Handmade in Nepal by skilled artisans — explore our collection and bring a piece of that craft into your home.