Escama Studio has a symbiotic relationship with the people who make our products; if the artist cooperatives in Brasília prosper then both of our businesses will do well.

Since 2004 approximately 70,000 bags have been produced and the group of artists has grown from 12 to over 100. Escama Studio has limited resources but we are continually looking for ways to assist the cooperatives beyond purchase orders. Here are some of the things that we've done so far:

Bank accounts

through our efforts HSBC bank has opened over 70 individual accounts. Payments for each artist is now done online, a safer solution than carrying around large amounts of cash.

Computer training

We've donated the money so that artists can attend computer literacy classes through a Brazilian non-profit, CDI's 'digital inclusion' program.

'Rebates'

Escama Studio has given a percentage of gross sales back to the cooperatives for capacity building. The money has been used in a variety of ways:

• Chica Rosa and Francisca bought computers, scanners, printers, furniture, file cabinets, and they now have DSL connectivity.
• Francisca built a kitchen in the workshop so that the ladies could cook and eat whenever they wanted.
• Francisca bought large quantities of pull-tabs to stabilize her supply of raw materials.

Escama Studio will continue to find ways to support our partners in Brasília. If you know of any programs that could assist us please let us know. Thank you!