I am sure that most of you have no idea what this is. CPSIA is an act that is going into effect in February. Simply stated, in order to sell anything for children ages 12 and younger, it must be lead tested. This is an iron clad law that at the moment has absolutely no exceptions. This sounds great doesn’t it. As a mother of three little ones, I understand why they are putting into law.
However, there is another side of this law that has me spell bound. All of the cute little boutique things that you buy for your kiddos are now included into that law. ANYTHING that you buy whether it be a bracelet, hat, dress, toys etc. that are handmade will cease to be sold. The only way around this law is to have each piece lead tested before it is sold. This may sound easy but it ends up costing a fortune and in most cases will be anti productive.
I am in a bit of shock over this one not knowing what to do. As most of you know, I operate a small children’s clothing and accessory business out of my home. I absolutely LOVE it and have spent quite a bit of money (don’t tell Harvey) trying to get it established and have the supplies on hand to operate. I have literally hundreds of pounds of fabric not to mention notions, beads, accessories etc that will no longer prove useful to me.
I am not the only person affected by this. There are thousands of crafters that work in small volume and that sell primarily on the internet and in crafting boutiques that will be put completely out of business.
Although, I want for my children and the children of others to be safe, I think that the country is losing such a great commodity with the loss of handmade goods for children. 
5 Comments
Is this a federal law or a state law? I’m sad about that too! Talk about being between a rock and a hard spot!
It is a federal law. I am not happy about it at all!
Wow…I had no idea about this law! I tottaly understand your frustation….darn it!
PS- I love your blog! You’re so talented!
Is law should only applying to publicly promoted busineses? Private enterpreneurs who only sell to friends and family should still be able to operate. i.e. – Don’t get a business license, just offer the goods to friends and family??? I’m no lawyer, but that might work.