Big Little Store: Empowering African Artisans Through Design
Big Little Store is a global e-commerce platform championing African design for kids. Our mission is to spotlight the talent and creativity of small artisanal businesses across Africa, offering unique, high-quality products that resonate with customers worldwide. From hand-knitted cardigans to intricately embroidered bunting and smocked dresses, each item is a testament to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the continent.
We aim to uplift communities by creating opportunities for artisans, ensuring their traditional crafts thrive in a modern marketplace. By providing a global platform, we help preserve time-honoured skills like crochet, embroidery, and smocking while enabling artisans to build sustainable livelihoods.
One of our proudest achievements is the Julie Baby Punch Club, founded during the COVID-19 lockdown by Andrea Olivia in Pretoria, South Africa. What began as a small project creating bespoke name cushions quickly gained international recognition, even catching the attention of the New York Times.To meet soaring demand, Julie Baby recruited ten women from her community—former nannies and domestic workers—turning a humble idea into a life-changing opportunity. These women have since funded their children's education, built homes, and formed a supportive sisterhood through their work with the Punch Club.
At Big Little Store, we’re committed to expanding our impact: Empowering Artisans: With additional funding, we aim to provide business and computer training, equipping artisans with skills to grow their businesses sustainably. Expanding Offerings: We plan to broaden our product range, bringing more of Africa’s rich design traditions to the world. Building Communities: By involving more artisans, we foster a thriving network of creators, preserving crafts and uplifting communities across the continent.
By choosing Big Little Store, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re supporting a vision of empowerment, tradition, and transformation. Together, we can celebrate the beauty of African design while making a meaningful difference in the lives of artisans and their families.
Join our community of talented artisans bringing African design to the world. Whether you’re a skilled craftsperson or an emerging creator, we’d love to hear from you.At Big Little Store, we celebrate the beauty of handmade creations and the rich heritage behind them. By partnering with us, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your work, reach a global audience, and make a meaningful impact. Together, we can preserve traditional crafts, empower communities, and share Africa’s incredible stories one creation at a time. Ready to Begin? Reach out to us to learn more about joining our growing community of makers. Let’s bring your artistry to life.