Crafted Stories

At Crafted Stories you’ll find secondhand clothing, handmade accessories and home décor, right in the heart of Amsterdam’s Jordaan neighbourhood. But this shop is more than a place to browse. Every purchase, from a secondhand jumper to a cup of coffee, supports someone with a vulnerable past in making a fresh start. The proceeds go straight to the shop’s social projects.

The offering of secondhand clothing is carefully curated, so there are enough gems to discover. Do you have clean, wearable clothes lying around that you no longer reach for? Feel free to donate them at Crafted Stories; that too supports the meaningful story behind this shop. Alongside secondhand, you’ll find handmade gifts and fairtrade coffee. Linger a while on the terrace and contribute to someone’s hope for a better future.

The volunteers who work in the shop follow a six-month learning-and-working trajectory. They learn a new profession, from barista to helping customers, with a job coach who walks alongside them every day. For some, this is their first safe workplace and a step towards paid employment after a period of homelessness, exploitation or sex work. Crafted Stories is part of Tot Heil des Volks, an organisation that has supported people in vulnerable situations in Amsterdam for over 170 years, including through Scharlaken Koord.

Step inside, browse the lovely selection, order a cup of coffee, strike up a conversation and get to know the honest, hopeful stories that can be discovered in the shop.