About Us

 

 

We started in 2021, first selling handmade jewelry and accessories from Thailand, but soon discovered our true passion, crochet. It began as a few pieces made only by my aunt and her friends. Over time, Thai artisans began reaching out to collaborate with us, and in some cases, we also reached out to them. Each artisan sets their own prices, works from their own home, and there are no strict deadlines. We simply agree on what to make, the quantity, and the pricing.

 

They are paid per piece based on the prices they choose. I work directly with each artisan, helping with color matching, creative direction, design ideas, and the overall aesthetic of each piece.

Our designs come from different places and processes. Some are fully created by our artisans, some are original designs we develop together, and some are based on patterns we purchase or find from trusted sources or free pattern communities online, which we then adapt and customize into our own version. We also experiment and tweak patterns along the way to create something unique to our style.

In Thailand, many artisans face very low minimum wages, and their work is often undervalued. By bringing their pieces to the U.S., they are able to share their talent with people who truly appreciate handmade work and are willing to pay fair prices. This helps support their livelihood and allows them to continue doing what they love.

My goal is to build a better life for all of us through this collaboration and to honor the value of handmade artistry, while staying transparent about how our work is created and how much care goes into every piece.

We are based in Bay Area, California. We proudly bring our artists’ work to life through local pop-ups, festivals, and community events, connecting handmade artistry with the people who cherish it.

Kwanjai is the Thai word for Sweet Heart and can also be used for "from the bottom of my heart". It is named after my parent's clothing store in Phayao, Thailand.

This is Kwanjai Phayao clothing store, my parents’ shop. My papa and mom have been running it since 1993. Through this shop, they raised three children and built a life with so much hard work, love, and dedication. And even today, they’re still going strong.

I grew up helping them at the shop and going to pop-ups and local markets whenever I didn’t have school. I’ve been by their side for as long as I can remember. Back then, I didn’t always like it, especially when my friends were out playing, but now I see it so differently. I’m grateful for those moments. I was part of helping my family make a living, and those experiences shaped who I am today.

This photo was taken on January 24, 2024. Can't wait to go back to visit my parents in Thailand. I miss them so much and I love them deeply. I’m incredibly proud to be their daughter. 🤍