The backstrap loom weaving technique has its roots in the Mayan times and is still practiced in many indigenous villages throughout Guatemala. This tradition has been able to carry on as children at a young are taught this technique, keeping the art alive from generation to generation for thousands of years. This practice does not only help the weavers produce elements for their personal needs, but has always been a source of income of these communities.
The Community that makes Faja belts is called Chirijox. They live in Nahuala, Sololá, located in the highlands of Western Guatemala. This fertile land not only provides all the elements the artisans need for their life, but also gives the materials for their tools and ingredients for their crafts.
The women weave almost all year around, using now 100% recycled cotton, provided by IOAN partners in Guatemala city who are developing new fibers from 100% recycled waste from the fashion industry.
Items are then dyed in the village of Nahuala using local natural dyes. For the colors of the fajas these dyes are used:
The Fajas are woven on back strap loom by a group of 10 indigenous women weavers that formed the association called IXCHEL (which means Moon Goddess).
Re-invigorating, re-introducing local ancestral techniques, adapting to modern need.
From the ground to the finished product, made at the source of the raw materials.
Organic, recycled or biodegradable materials and processes.
Worldwide team members and partners receive more than average wages and salaries.
No intermediaries or agents, every production is developed and monitored by IOAN.
