WHO WE ARE
THE BRAND
Threads by Nomad is a lifestyle brand that celebrates diversity and empowers individuals through design. We collaborate with refugee artisans and others who are displaced or in danger of displacement, paying fair wages for their craftsmanship, and partner with global and local organizations to create unique products that tell a story and make a difference.
Founded in 2016, Threads by Nomad began with a capsule collection inspired by West Africa and has since expanded to include a wide range of offerings—from garments and accessories to home decor and gifts. Our products are crafted from globally sourced textiles and materials, showcasing the skills of artisans from across the world.
Threads by Nomad is a subsidiary of The Off Ramp, a nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and displacement. Together, we create sustainable opportunities for artisans to thrive, both in the U.S. and internationally.
who we are
the artisans
Senegal
Amina & Mayacine
Designing and tailoring garments in Dakar using traditional textiles, Amina and Mayacine craft hand-finished pieces with exquisite attention to detail.
Afghanistan, living in Raleigh, NC
Alia
Sewing from her home, Alia supports her family and helps put her sister through college by creating beautiful, high-quality products.
Afghanistan, living in Charlotte, NC
Fahima
A graduate of the Make Welcome Sewing, Fahima is a talented seamstress working to establish her own tailoring business.
Afghanistan, living in Charlotte, NC
Shahnaz
Shahnaz balances sewing with caring for her children. With support from The Off Ramp, she received a serger machine and training to enhance her skills.
Afghanistan, Living in Charlotte, NC
Nilab
Nilab has three small boys and works from home so she can care for them. With support from The Off Ramp, she received a serger machine and training to enhance her skills.
Iran, Living in Charlotte, NC
Ali
Ali is a talented seamstress who is the creator behind our cosmetic bags. We met Ali through Make Welcoming Sewing.
OUR PARTNERS
We partner with organizations that share our commitment to creating opportunities and supporting artisans worldwide:
Make Welcome Refugee Women's Center (Charlotte, NC)
Empowering refugee women through skill-building, friendship, and support as they rebuild their lives in North Carolina.
Learn Morerefuge & Hope (Kampala, Uganda)
A sewing program that helps displaced individuals in Uganda rebuild their lives and gain self-sufficiency.
Learn Morecoton et gourmandises (Dakar, Senegal)
Collaborating with women at La Maison Rose, a recovery home in Dakar, to create crocheted gifts and toys that provide stability and dignity.
Learn MoreKayoong (Dakar, Senegal)
Supporting women with disabilities through skill training and paying artisans six times the minimum wage, while funding scholarships and microloans.
Learn MoreOlive & Loom (Turkey)
Bridging Turkish and U.S. cultures by working with independent creators to craft textiles and products inspired by Turkey's rich heritage.
Learn MoreQuartier Sandaga (Dakar, Senegal)
Collaborating with artisans to create embroidered basics that celebrate the region’s craftsmanship and languages.
The Esther project shop (Kenya)
Combating human trafficking in Kenya by providing women with market access and sustainable income opportunities.
Learn MoreWomen's Bean Project (United States)
A social enterprise helping women transition to self-sufficiency by employing them to create nourishing, high-quality products
Learn MoreImadi (Dakar, Senegal)
Collaborating with women from surrounding villages in Senegal who create stunning modern bags, baskets, and rugs using traditional materials and techniques. Their beautifully finished Senegalese baskets, often trimmed with leather, reflect a weaving tradition passed down through generations, reimagined with vibrant colors, shapes, and textures.
Learn MoreGreen Wave Jewellery (Dakar, Senegal)
A social enterprise that trains and employs women living in shelters in Dakar, helping them achieve financial independence. After three months of free training, participants are offered jobs in Green Wave's workshop, where they create stunning jewelry.
Learn MoreServe (Global)
A fair trade organization sourcing handmade gifts, crafts, and foods from small-scale global artisans and farmers. SERRV empowers these artisans through fair trade practices, providing them with sustainable incomes and market access.
Learn more