A chance meeting of two strange dots some 34 years ago has led to a series of adventures and occasional misadventures...a roller coaster ride in the journey called "life"! Through it all,side by side...they laugh,discover,explore,dream and create together! In 2016, Aramidua Handmade Crafts was established in Baguio City by a locally-based husband and wife tandem that loves creating soulful,rustic and country pieces. Exclusively retailed in this shop, the main product lines of handcrafted items are macrame, shibori dye, woodcuts and woodburned pieces which are personally conceptualized and handmade by both or either of the shop-owners. The products are usually made-to-order, customized or commissioned. Other crafts, macrame workshops, product or process demonstrations and resource speaking are also accomodated upon request. "Aramidua" springs from the Ilokano(northern dialect) words "aramid" meaning create and "dua" meaning two. The business caters mainly to local and regional advocates of unique non-traditional handcrafted articles that are distinct from quickly accessible commercialized ones. Patrons also appreciate the progression of slow-crafts and understand the beauty of imperfect materials or finish. Each item made is loaded with apt details, constructive energy and intangibles that extend the thoughtfulness of its giver, the warmth of a cozy home or an intended function than just being an item of aethetics. While the business is the main provider for its keepers by showcasing their crafts, it also serves as a platform to humbly touch lives through information, education, involvement, inclusion, inspiration and empowerment in arts and crafts appreciation; resourcefulness; and creativity; perseverance, resilience and self-care; promotion and support of budding youngh artists and other small local/handcraft businesses; and green crafting by recycle, re-use, reduce and upcycle. The retail shop has also become a haven for tired souls( wishing to cool-down at the end of a stressful day) and a craft sanctuary to find reflection in enjoying life's journeys and loving it's flaws. This micro-company goes beyond being just a physical retail shop or a crafts showroom...it has evolved into a state of mindfulness in advocating rustic creativities, handmade imperfections and laid-back imperfections branching from zealous human spirit. It is living with a creative passion.
