Originally Posted by
u2fan
I last visited Thailand about 5-6 years ago and purchased a stingray skin (mens) wallet. I have since received many compliments on it and would like to bring about 10-12 back as gifts this trip. Any ideas on where to get good prices. I do not need a high end street or even a store. Last trip used Weekend Market in Bangkok and remembered paying about $10 but I could be off. Any help would be appreciated.
Lastly, I will probably stay in Bangkok but may be willing to venture out.
I used to export these as a business venture a few years back. Just like with anything else, there are varying qualities in both the actual preparation and dying of the skin and the actual assembly of the product, including the method of joinery. This will eventually affect the life of the product. If these issues are not your concerns and you just want 10-12, places like Chatuchak where you went before, the Night Bazaar Lumpini and Pratunam should suffice. Also, a lot of retailers get a wholesale sized order, then get stuck with these for a long time....if you see what you want in a regular retail store, they might offer you a good price just to rid of them. There is a big wholesaler in Chonburi, but you have to order at least 200 as a min. order (of one style) and the quality has to be controlled closely. The other places are best for your needs.