News

Following months of war, economic hardship, and communication disruptions, weavers and their families in Iran describe growing uncertainty about livelihoods, education, and the future of their craft.

At High Point Market, Label STEP and its Certified Partners come together at the first COVER Connect Pop-Up, highlighting how craftsmanship, responsible production and traceability are reshaping the meaning of luxury in handmade carpets.

A visual story on Morocco’s weaving heritage, focusing on the people behind the looms and the systems shaping the future of craft. Moroccan carpets are admired worldwide, yet the traditions behind them remain shaped by fragile economic realities.

In late 2025, a student of the University of Richmond initiated a women-only weaving centre in Pakistan. Later supported by the local STEP team, the centre integrates child care, health support, and rights awareness to improve working conditions in the country’s carpet sector.

Launched by Karnor Carpets and EPSA-Nepal, the Karuna Universal Weaving Facility is Nepal’s first fully inclusive weaving centre—and with support from Label STEP Nepal, it’s creating dignified livelihoods for artisans with disabilities.

In COVER Magazine’s latest issue, Label STEP marks 30 years of advancing fair trade in the handmade rug industry with 30 things to love about STEP. This expanded version explores how STEP supports artisans, strengthens supply chains and promotes responsible, human-centred production.