may rings

Working on a backstrap just as generations of Maya weavers have done, Petrona Perez and the Women Artisans Association transform red cotton into a pair of cushion covers. Geometric motifs in pink, grey and ivory border the front of the pair, and an opening at the back permit insertions of the cushions.

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.

"The inspiration for this square cushion cover comes from the beautiful sight made by the sun when it rises and falls over the mountains. It's as if they fuse together," artisans from Women United for Artisan Development explain. The Guatemalan artisans weave the cotton cushion cover in a spicy cinnamon hue featuring chili red suns and escorted by chocolate brown birds. The artisans border the square cover with cording and include a zipper closure on the back.