What is Craftsmanship or the art of know-how?

"The art of know-how". That's a lovely expression to describe what craftsmanship is. Increasingly popular, this sector attracts those who wish to shape the world with their own hands. Today, 1 in 4 entrepreneurs creates their business in craftsmanship.* In an era where mass production and large companies often dominate our consumer choices, craftsmanship emerges as a responsible solution that reconnects us with our ethical values. 

But do you really know what craftsmanship is? Focus on the definition, origin and the different branches that make up this sector. 

Craftsmanship: Definition of craftsmanship

Craftsmanship is often confused with "handmade" creations. However, it is important to know how to differentiate these two terms. 

Craftsmanship refers to the set of trades and activities that involve the creation, transformation or repair of objects by hand, using specific techniques and know-how. Craftsmanship is opposed to industrial manufacturing.

Craftsmanship trades

The people working in this sector are artisans. The Chambers of Trades and Craftsmanship distinguish 4 major sectors of activity that fall under craftsmanship: food, construction, manufacturing and services. In total, this field counts nearly 250 different trades. To see more clearly, here are some examples of artisanal professions: 

・Baker
・Hairdresser
・Electrician
・Seamstress
・Cook
・Painter
・Florist
・Esthetician
・Mason
・Cabinetmaker
・Ceramicist
・Sculptor
・Printer

... And the list is still long. 

Craftsmanship: History of craftsmanship 

The origin of craftsmanship

In the Middle Ages, artisans were serfs, people attached to a land, whose goods and work belonged to the owner of that land. However, they could be freed, or even enfeoffed, as a reward for their work. From the 9th century, artisans finally gathered in brotherhoods (confratriae) whose traditions were strongly based on religion. For example, each brotherhood worshipped its patron saint. It was only at the end of the 17th century that they transformed into "corporations", where all religious characteristics completely disappeared. 

Segmentation of craftsmanship

During the industrialization in the 18th century, craftsmanship was divided into 2 categories: mass craftsmanship and local craftsmanship. The former favored assembly-line work in the countryside and large-scale production, while the latter, limited and diversified production in the heart of cities. Despite the industrial revolutions, craftsmanship does not disappear. Some artisans were forced to work in factories, while others continue to create in an independent and free way in the face of capitalism.

It was finally in the 20th century that craftsmanship gradually became democratized. In 1928, the first two Chambers of Trades and Craftsmanship were born. Then, artisanal businesses appeared. However, they are very restricted by the State and can only have 2 employees. It was not until 1976 that the State finally granted them the possibility of hiring up to 10 employees.

In the 21st century, the development of Craftsmanship trades continues to grow. According to the ISM/MAAF craftsmanship barometer in May 2022, 250,000 artisanal businesses were born in France in 2021. An increase of 13% compared to 2019. 

Craftsmanship: The little extra of craftsmanship 

Consuming artisanal products has its share of advantages, and not a few. Buying artisanal first of all preserves the cultural heritage of your country. France has valuable know-how (textile, jewelry, ceramics, glass...), often passed down from generation to generation. That is why it is important to support the artisans of your region so that these ancestral techniques continue to exist. 

Another little extra of craftsmanship

Consuming artisanal allows you to contribute to the preservation of the planet. Unlike industrial goods that travel around the world to be assembled, artisanal products are designed locally. Just like their raw materials! Ceramics, earth, clay... Very often, artisans favor eco-responsible and ethical materials in a short circuit, that is, they can obtain them near their workshop. Less transport, less greenhouse gases! And we also know where and how the products are made. 

Finally, consuming artisanal is choosing quality and durability. Sometimes more expensive than the industrial products found in stores, artisanal creations are designed to last over time. No need to buy the same product every year. Some handmade goods can even last a lifetime. It is not uncommon to see jewelry or furniture pass through generations and years without showing a wrinkle. That's the power of craftsmanship! 

Craftsmanship: The brands of Meanwhile Boutique 

Craftsmanship is one of the values that make up the DNA of Meanwhile Boutique. Decoration, bags, jewelry... The committed collective of creators imagines, creates and shapes solutions for a sustainable world. For this, they use their different know-how by creating eco-responsible products from natural and ethical materials. 

Get the Wave designs handmade glass pieces that transform sunlight into sparkling moments of calm, beauty and emotion for your interior. 

Léa Croison shapes useful objects in Paris, from local materials such as ceramics and porcelain. 

On the left: blue porcelain vase with dripping effect - €135
On the right: bronze-colored porcelain vase - €135 

Other products from French and worldwide craftsmanship can be found in the craftsmanship collection on Meanwhile Boutique: