Heritage Mah Jongg Market Tote - The Sparrow Tile
Heritage Mah Jongg Market Tote - The Sparrow Tile
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Why were Hong Kong's parlours called schools? Because the licence said so. The English name Mahjong School helped sidestep a very old ban on gambling.
Take this bag to the wet market and think of Lockhart Road. The bird is printed plain on natural cotton, ideal for the person who remembers neon, or who simply likes a shopping bag with a little backstory behind it.
Gambling was banned in Hong Kong in 1871. Police began issuing mahjong licences in 1956, and one source counts 144 issued, with 66 schools still open in June 2011. The Gambling Ordinance followed in 1977, with most licence conditions dating from that era.
Licensing today costs HK$1,145 per table each year, with hours from noon to midnight, players over 18 and no credit. One Lockhart Road company has made tiles since 1969. And that count of 144 licences matches the 144 tiles in a set, which is a coincidence, but one worth repeating at the table.
Natural cotton canvas, cut 15 by 16 inches, with long fabric handles that go over a shoulder. It is a basic, tough everyday tote that folds flat. Wipe spots clean rather than washing, use no bleach, and line dry. Avoid ironing the print. Like everything in our shop, this one means 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.
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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 6–11 business days—please allow extra time for time-sensitive gifts.
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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 6-12 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 apparel project celebrating timeless local style. Every item is made to order, and profits (revenue minus external product/marketing cost) support hunger-relief programs in the communities our collections spotlight. Classic looks, real local impact—every purchase helps.