About Thumbprint Artifacts

As every thumbprint is unique, so are the handcrafted items that we import from South Africa. Thumbprint Artifacts is a member of the Fair Trade Federation. Over 90% of our artisans are women, primarily single mothers that support an extended family. Our mission is to empower these artisans by providing them with a sustainable income through the sale of their products in the United States. Thumbprint Artifacts was started in 2013 by two life-long friends, Kris Engle and Becky Riess. Kris's background includes an entrepreneurial trek through England and India, settling most recently in South Africa. Kris identified that there were so many talented artisans creating beautiful products, however they needed help getting their products to the States. Becky had a long time career in sales and marketing in the States with Kimberly-Clark Corporation. When Kris and Becky were at a crossroads of their lives in 2012, they created a company that would positively impact the lives of others. When Thumbprint Artifacts began, we touched the lives of approximately 60 artisans. Through the sale of their products in the States, we are now helping to provide a sustainable income to over 300 artisans!Read their story