Heritage Mah Jongg Market Tote - The Big Joker
Heritage Mah Jongg Market Tote - The Big Joker
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Where did America's first mah jongg sets come from? Largely from China, carved in part from American cattle bone that sailed to Shanghai and came back as tiles.
Here is a tote fit for a shopping story. The Big Joker goes to the market on plain natural cotton, simple and sturdy, for the player who likes a good object and a good tale about where things really come from.
The first American sets were sold by a New York outfitter whose agents scoured China for them. Prices at one department store ran from $16 to $75. In October 1923, one ship was reported carrying 170 tons of sets, and by 1924 they ranked sixth among Shanghai's exports to the United States.
Demand strained the supply of bone. Much of it came from Chicago slaughterhouses, shipped across the Pacific, carved by families who might finish about one set a day, then shipped back. Accounts differ on whether a true shortage drove this. Either way, your grandmother's 1920s tiles may have started out as American shinbone.
A sturdy market tote in 12 oz, 100 percent cotton canvas, 15 by 16 inches, with 20-inch self-fabric handles and a natural finish. Printed to order and easy to fold into a bigger bag. Spot clean only, no bleach, then line dry. Do not iron directly over the print. As with everything we make, profits support hunger relief.
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Product FAQs
How does your sizing work?
Because items are made to order, we can’t accept returns for sizing or color choices. We do accept returns for defects, misprints, or shipping damage. Please review the detailed photos and descriptions before purchasing. Women’s fitted tees run small; if you prefer a looser fit, consider sizing up.
How do I send gifts?
All items ship without prices and include a simple packing slip for easy gifting. Enter the recipient’s shipping address and your billing address at checkout. Use your contact info to receive tracking updates. Orders typically arrive within 6–15 business days—please allow extra time for time-sensitive gifts.
How do I care for my item?
For apparel: wash cold, inside-out, with like colors; avoid bleach and high heat; tumble dry low or hang dry. For embroidery, iron inside-out to protect the stitching. See specific care instructions in product descriptions and also follow general best practices in caring for your items for long term enjoyment.
How are items made and when will they arrive?
We make each item on demand using premium blanks, embroidery, and soft-hand prints. Production usually takes 2–5 business days (excluding weekends and holidays). You’ll receive tracking once shipped. We currently ship to U.S. addresses via USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Most orders arrive within 6–15 business days.
What’s the return/exchange policy?
We accept returns for defects, misprints, or damage on arrival. Report issues within 30 days with photos and your order number, and we’ll replace or refund. Size or color changes aren’t supported after purchase, so please consult size charts before ordering if you are at all unsure.
Who are we?
Merlin Classics is a volunteer-run, AI-assisted brand celebrating timeless local style. Every item is made to order, and the business supports hunger-relief programs in the communities our collections spotlight through discretionary giving. Classic looks, real local impact.