Special Programs

FirstCraft

FirstCraft | 首工计划

A Craft-to-Production Support Program for Independent Jewelry Designers

Important Notice: This program is not a fully sponsored or free initiative.
Participation involves shared responsibility and professional commitment from all applicants.

Your first creation deserves to be executed with integrity.”

- FundStone

Program Overview

FirstCraft is a non-profit–oriented craft support initiative dedicated to helping independent jewelry designers translate original concepts into their first correctly executed physical works.

Unlike conventional manufacturing services, FirstCraft focuses on the first realization of a design — where structural logic, craftsmanship, material behavior, and production feasibility must be resolved simultaneously. The program provides designers with guided access to professional jewelry craftsmanship, technical evaluation, and responsible production pathways, ensuring that creative intent is preserved throughout the making process.

FirstCraft emphasizes process over volume, craft over speed, and long-term value over short-term output. It is designed for designers who seek not only to produce jewelry, but to establish a sustainable foundation of craftsmanship for their future practice.

By supporting the first correct piece, FirstCraft enables designers to enter exhibitions, markets, and professional ecosystems with works that truly represent their vision and standards.


Eligible Participants

FirstCraft is open to:

  • Independent jewelry designers
  • Emerging designers and design studios
  • Designers participating in FirstStone or equivalent material-support programs
  • Designers preparing works for exhibitions, competitions, academic presentation, or early-stage market validation

The program prioritizes designers who:

  • Present original design concepts
  • Demonstrate a clear intention to realize physical works
  • Value craftsmanship, process integrity, and long-term development

Scope of Support

FirstCraft provides non-commercial, guided support in the following areas:

  • Design feasibility assessment
  • Structural and technical consultation
  • Craft process planning and selection
  • Prototype or first-piece production support
  • Risk evaluation related to materials, structure, and wearability

The program does not guarantee mass production, commercial scalability, or sales outcomes.

Implementation Process

  • Application Submission
    Designers submit design concepts, sketches, and basic project descriptions.
  • Technical Review
    A professional evaluation is conducted focusing on feasibility, craftsmanship, and alignment with program values.
  • Craft Guidance Phase
    Selected designers receive structured guidance on production methods, process logic, and execution priorities.
  • First Piece Realization
    Designers proceed with prototype or first-piece creation under guided support.
  • Documentation & Completion
    The completed work is documented as part of the designer’s professional development record.

Principles and Limitations

FirstCraft operates under the following principles:

  • Respect for original authorship
  • No ownership claim over designers’ intellectual property
  • Transparency in process and decision-making
  • Emphasis on learning and professional growth

The program reserves the right to decline projects that:

  • Lack originality
  • Are purely commercial or speculative
  • Do not align with the program’s ethical or professional standards

Program Outcome

Upon completion, participating designers will obtain:

  • A correctly executed first physical work
  • Practical understanding of craftsmanship and production logic
  • Documentation supporting future exhibitions, applications, or collaborations

Frequently Asked Questions

The 5 Most Frequently Asked Questions by Designers

Is FirstStone a free raw material sponsorship program?

No. FirstStone is not a free sponsorship program. Raw materials are provided under a managed framework and remain under the care of the Foundation. When a work is sold, material costs are reimbursed and profits are shared according to the agreed terms.

What happens if my work does not sell?

FirstStone understands that creative work involves uncertainty. A project not resulting in a sale does not constitute a breach, as long as the designer fulfills the agreed responsibilities and follows the project terms.

Who owns the design copyright?

Design copyright belongs 100% to the designer. FirstStone does not own or claim any intellectual property rights over the design itself.

Can I apply for any amount or value of materials?

No. All material applications must be reasonable and aligned with the project scope, and are subject to Committee review. The Committee may adjust material types, quantities, or budget ranges.

Does FirstStone prioritize creativity or commercial value?

Both are important. FirstStone focuses on whether a project is worth realizing, executable, and whether the designer demonstrates professional commitment.

Is FirstStone Right for You?

I only want to try materials and do not have a clear project plan

FirstStone supports projects with clear goals and execution plans, not material experimentation or early-stage exploration.

I am looking for cash, subsidies, or financial grants

FirstStone provides raw material support, not cash funding, reimbursements, or financial sponsorship.

I am uncomfortable with clear rules and project agreements

FirstStone operates on clearly defined rules regarding material ownership, cost reimbursement, profit sharing, and project management.

My project idea is still vague and not ready for execution

FirstStone does not require perfection, but applicants must be able to explain what they want to make, why, and how.

I am looking for long-term or repeated access to materials

FirstStone is designed to support a critical step, not to function as an ongoing supply system.

Want to become a FundStoneForWOMEN Member? If you are:


Female jewelry designer (Currently open to women designers only)

Any level of experience in jewelry design

At least 2 jewelry designs completed

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