Raahen Taitopaja is a versatile handicraft and programme service company that operates in an old foundry established by the Tuomaala brothers in 1955. Traditional handicrafts are now being made in the third generation. At the premises, you can learn more about bronze casting and traditional Finnish himmeli straw mobiles, for example. The bronze casting is carried out using a traditional sand-casting technique.

Our himmeli exhibition showcasing traditional Finnish straw and glass mobiles features  over 150 different mobiles.

Raahen Taitopaja offers various activities for groups, including work demonstrations, courses, a tour of the premises as well as interactive sessions for making straw mobiles and for bronze casting and glasswork.

Raahen Taitopaja is committed to acting responsibly and promoting sustainable development in all its activities, while preserving the local cultural heritage and strengthening community well-being. Our operations take into account the values of the environment, community, and cultural heritage, which are reflected in our everyday choices and practices.

We aim to preserve and actively strengthen and promote the transfer of cultural values to future generations. We highlight both local and other cultural heritage, including traditions such as foundry and Himmel tradition. This valuable cultural history is evident in our work, services, and products.

Our activities are carried out through small but meaningful choices, such as utilizing recycled materials in bronze casting and reusing materials in ceramics and glassworks.

Our premises are open and accessible to everyone, except for the restrooms.

Our environmental responsibility is demonstrated through energy-efficient operations and environmentally friendly packaging choices, such as replacing plastic packaging with cardboard.

We foster community spirit by providing services to both businesses and individuals, collaborating with local events and actors, and actively participating in regional events, training sessions, and workshops. Our inclusiveness is reflected in an open atmosphere where people of all ages, religions, minorities, LGBTQ+ community, and nationalities are warmly welcomed.

Our premises, which date back to 1955 and are partly preserved in their original form, are part of this valuable cultural history and symbolize our commitment to preserving traditions.

We have obtained GTS and STF certificates, which serve as proof of our commitment to the development of sustainable tourism and the conservation of natural resources. We actively make responsible choices in our operations and report on them comprehensively.

https://goodtravelprogram.com/index_new.php?menu=home_gts&lang=en#

https://www.visitfinland.fi/liiketoiminnan-kehittaminen/vastuullinen-matkailu/sustainable-travel-finland

Taitopaja is open upon request.