fabric

Tall volcanic peaks stand in orderly rows of raisin brown, green, blue and yellow in a bold geometric pattern. Working on the backstrap loom, Juan Jose Ventura weaves the colorful fabric and transforms it into an elegant clutch purse. It opens to reveal a zipper pocket with six spaces for documents and cards.

Precise geometric motifs surround two red deer in an exquisite design. From talented members of Women United for Artisan Development, this cushion cover is woven by hand on a backstrap loom. Cording defines the borders, and the back is solid black.

Should one of the threads snag, the artisans suggest you pull it back into place from the back of the fabric with a fine crochet hook.

Yellow birds emerge from a red and purple forest in this beautiful design. From talented members of Women United for Artisan Development, the cushion cover is woven by hand on a backstrap loom. Cording defines the borders, and the back is solid red.

Should one of the threads snag, the artisans suggest you pull it back into place from the back of the fabric with a fine crochet hook.

Evoking clouds above the Maya highlands, this white cotton cushion cover reveals blue-grey geometric motifs. The highlands of Chiapas are well-known for their artisans, particularly its talented weavers. This design is handwoven on the traditional backstrap loom with a subtle brocade to light up any modern home. It comes from the Aid to Artisans organization, which works to help the indigenous people of this state maintain their traditional lifestyles.

The reverse side is the same fabric without the motifs. An opening at the back permits insertion of the cushions.

Precise geometric motifs alternate with birds in an exquisite design. From talented members of Women United for Artisan Development, the cushion cover is woven by hand on a backstrap loom. Cording defines the borders, and the back is solid red. "We love birds," the artisans confide. "This design was woven by women who live in Quiché, a forested region in western Guatemala."

Should one of the threads snag, they suggest you pull it back into place from the back of the fabric with a fine crochet hook.