Maya Traditions
LOCATED IN guatemala
Since 1996, Maya Traditions has connected indigenous Maya artisans and their families to a national and global audience. While practicing fair trade principles, Maya Traditions helps skilled artisan women develop their skills and access formal educational opportunities and healthcare. They can also participate in social programs covering topics including youth education, community health, and artisan development.
Artisans working with Maya Traditions practice and preserve traditional backstrap weaving techniques to create handwoven accessories and décor. The loom used for backstrap weaving is simple and portable; the weavers often create them using wooden rods. One end is tied to a tree or post and the other is secured to the weaver’s waist with a strap. They prepare and stretch the materials across the loom, which holds the threads taut while the weavers pass a crosswise thread between them. Color threads are often added to create intricate patterns. This technique is part of the culture in the Guatemalan highlands and is passed down across generations of women. The patterns can have great significance in the Maya culture, representing the weaver’s heritage, marital status, religion, and personality as well as the village she is from. Every region and town in Guatemala has unique patterns that distinguish them from one another.
from the archives
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More styles available
Travel Pouches
Luggage Tags
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More styles available
Pillow Covers
Overnight Bags
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