About the Artisans

The Santo Tomas Weavers are just one of Mission: Guatemala's artisan groups in Guatemala, possess the intricate skills of the centuries old Mayan craftsmanship. They create beautiful hand-woven fabrics and ceramics that can be used in everyday life. This is the backbone of their security and a staple of their tradition.

However, new industries and manufacturing technologies seem to trivialize their work and threaten their way of life. To assist the artisans in preserving their ancient traditions (and essentially their jobs), mainly back strap and foot loom weaving, Mission: Guatemala connects these artisans with each other and seeks the appropriate market to sell their authentic products at fair market prices.

This is accomplished when Kay "Cata" Sweeney, founder of Mission: Guatemala, meets with weavers, like La Familia Catu-Tzaj, in the highlands to select and buy quality pieces at fair local prices.

Small businesses that are often family owned or church sponsored, such as The Women of Chumanzana, contract with Mission: Guatemala to use the weaved pieces to produce popular and practical fabric articles. To help groups get started, small loans are made available at 0% interest.

All products are made for sale within Guatemala and for export, helping all artisans who take part in the process reach a sustainable income level.

View the artisans' craftsmanship at the Mission: Guatemala Market.

ABOUT THE ARTISANS

• La Familia Catu-Tzaj
• La Familia Cun
• Santo Tomas Weavers
• The Women of Chumanzana
• Venta Maya

BUY THEIR WORK

Beautiful table runner in a traditional design will spice up any dinner party. Can also be used as a shawl. Handwoven by La Familia Catu-Tzaj.

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Mission: Guatemala · PO Box 906, Pacifica, CA 94044 · Phone: 650.557-1591· Email: info@mission-guatemala.org

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