Our bags are handmade in the rural highlands of north eastern Guatemala by artisans who have been crafting and handing down traditional practices for generations. We do not have a factory, rather these artisans work from small workshops often attached to their homes. More often than not looming fabric and sewing bags is a family affair, carrying on the tradition throughout generations. We are dedicated to paying fair wages consequently our artisans dictate their own prices. They are not our employees and therefor have an infinite amount of flexibility to work on their own time, hold other jobs and spend time with their families.
We respect our artisans wishes to not have their photographs posted on our website or social media. They are very true to their culture and beliefs and do not wish to participate in social media.
Each piece of each bag is crafted, cut and sewn by hand using a sewing machine. Not only is every bag made with the finest materials - down to the hardware. Each bag serves a unique functional purpose, there's something perfect for everyone and every occasion.
OUR LEATHER
WOVEN uses only full grain leather as it is the highest quality and most durable leather. Our hides have not been sanded, buffed or treated with any chemicals, we preserve the natural beauty or each piece. The grain is so tight and therefore resists moisture very well and continues to look nicer over time.
OUR FABRICS
Our Alfombra Wool Collection is newly loomed using 100% wool. These natural fibers are dyed and spun into thick yarn and inter-woven using a hand loom. This is a generationally passed down art form that focuses on small batches to ensure the highest quality standards. As each piece is hand woven no two pieces are exactly alike. These minor variations just add to the individuality and uniqueness of each piece making each bag truly a beautiful work of art.
Our One Of A Kind Vintage Huipil Collection uses up-cycled handwoven fabrics crafted in Guatemala. Each traditional Mayan hand woven piece was created up to ten years ago, taking nearly six months to complete. No two bags will ever be the same as no two pieces of huipil will ever be the same. Preserving traditional symbolism and culture into every piece, these bags are truly a treasure.
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All of our fabrics are hand woven and durable yet delicate at the same time. Should you have a spot that needs cleaning use a mild soap on a clean cotton rag and spot treat with gentle strokes as to not upset the fibers.
LEATHER CARE
Our bags are crafted by hand using full-grain leather, which refers to the strongest and most durable part of the hide. Our leather has not been sanded or buffed therefore it shows all the unique and natural characteristics, no two pieces are alike. As you use your bag the leather will continue to soften as it absorbs natural oils from your skin. This is a characteristic of using full grain leather which adds to its uniqueness.
Proper cleaning and conditioning of your bag is recommended to protect and preserve it's quality. For that we recommend two products from the company Leather Honey; Leather Cleaner and Leather Conditioner. They can be purchased from any major retailer.
STEP ONE: CLEAN YOUR LEATHER
It's important to make sure that your bag is entirely dry before applying products to it. Always use a clean cotton rag and apply a small amount of product to a test spot first. Rub in a circular motion and allow to naturally dry completely. If there is no excess color rub off or discoloration continue with the entire bag ensuring that you don't oversaturate the leather with cleaner. This cleaner does not contain drying agents that take away moisture from the leather. Once your bag is completely dry you can move on to step two and condition the leather.
STEP TWO: CONDITION YOUR LEATHER
Again using a clean cotton cloth apply a small amount of Leather Conditioner to the leather surface of the bag. Make sure to let it soak in and dry overnight for best results. Leather Conditioner penetrates deep into the pores and hydrates the fibers. This will give your bag a lasting glow.
We recommend repeating this process 2-3 times per year but if your leather is feeling dried out or dull it may be time to refresh.
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Every bag and blanket is handmade with love in the beautiful countryside of Guatemala. From stand out pieces to something timeless our team works hard to make these products something you will truly love. We are passionate about giving back not only to our local community, but also to the international artisans that create our distinctly beautiful and charming products.
Thank you for being here and supporting our small business!
XX, Shayla
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