Handwoven Striped Cotton Shoulder Bag with Leather Straps - Pura Vida

Artisan Organization: Asociación de Mujeres Vida y Esperanza

Country: Central America

"In the picturesque town of Chichicastenango, Guatemala, our journey began from the pressing need to initiate and execute community development projects that would not only generate income but also foster a sense of empowerment. It was this very need that gave rise to the 'Association of Women Life and Hope.'

Our primary mission revolves around the creation of high-quality handwoven textiles using the traditional backstrap loom technique. This endeavor serves as an economic activity that not only offers financial sustenance to our dedicated members but also contributes significantly to the economic growth of Chichicastenango municipality.

In our quest for excellence, we introduced a rigorous quality control system to ensure that our woven masterpieces meet the highest standards. This was a novel concept for our artisans, who had never experienced such meticulous scrutiny of their work. However, it soon became clear that these quality checks were essential, as they not only enhanced our output but also created ample job opportunities, thereby improving the living standards of our talented artisans.

Our journey has been marked by valuable learning experiences, particularly the acquisition of new techniques that have boosted our production capabilities. These newfound skills have not only empowered us as artisans but have also had a positive impact on our overall quality of life.

The association represents not only widowed women but also extends its arms to married women, divorced individuals, single mothers, and young women. It has emerged as a space for integration and participation, welcoming all who share our passion for traditional craftsmanship and community development.

The raw materials that fuel our creativity include cotton thread, synthetic lining, plastic zippers, leather, and metal accessories. While each material presents its unique challenges, our artisans have acquired expertise in their usage over time. Fortunately, our municipality boasts stores that cater to all our material needs, making the process more accessible.

As we weave threads into exquisite textiles, we weave together the aspirations of our community. Our association, 'Women Life and Hope', symbolizes not just a means of economic sustenance, but also a platform for the integration, participation, and empowerment of women from all walks of life. Through our collective efforts, we are 'Weaving a New Life and Hope' for Chichicastenango and beyond.""