Maya Traditions Journal > Environmentally Sustainable

Working Towards Fair Trade Principle #9

Posted by on August 24, 2015

As members of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), we at Maya Traditions are working to guarantee that our practices follow the 10 Principles of Fair Trade outlined by the WFTO. The 9th Fair Trade Principle states: Organizations which produce Fair Trade products maximize the use of raw materials from sustainably managed sources in their ranges, buying locally when possible. No one can deny that environmental consciousness is a necessity to satisfy consumers in today’s modern market. At Maya Traditions we recognize the importance of protecting the natural environment of Guatemala in the following ways: Backstrap weaving is inherently environmentally friendly

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Celebrating Fashion Revolution Day

Posted by on April 24, 2015

Two years ago today, the Rana Plaza collapsed, leading to the worst industrial disaster in Bangladesh’s history.  1,133 workers lost their lives and over 2,500 others were wounded. This event exposed the harsh realities of the garment industry that many of us have heard about, but chose to ignore. It also spurred an international movement and conversation about who is making our clothes and the conditions they face at work every day. We at Maya Traditions are excited to be a part of this movement by celebrating and preserving the art of backstrap weaving and by providing an alternative, ethical

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Yes, they’re here… Naturally Dyed Ikat Scarves!

Posted by on January 28, 2015

We will be showcasing our naturally dyed Ikat scarf line this week at the NY Now Show! You may be wondering, ‘‘what is Ikat?’’ ‘‘natural dye?’’ Allow us to explain. Ikat, also known to Mayan weavers as “Jaspe,” is a traditional weaving technique that allows the artisan to incorporate intricate design patterns into backstrap woven textiles. Maya Traditions’ cooperatives in San Juan La Laguna integrate natural dyes, created from plants and insects, and Ikat patterns to their backstrap woven textiles, producing unique and elaborate designs. Each of these techniques is traditional to Maya culture and to the region, adding complexity and

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Understanding the Techniques: The Natural Dying of Threads

Posted by on October 09, 2014

Design Intern Averie Floyd here! I recently took a natural dyeing class with Cecilia in San Juan, where they are known for their beautiful naturally dyed colors. It was interesting to experience the whole process first hand.  Here are the steps involved in creating naturally dyed products: The first step is to buy or find our natural dyestuffs, or ingredients that can be used to create dye colors. We decided to work with Palo Campeche, or logwood. Cecilia and the rest of the group use a variety of other products including coffee and guava leaves, marigold and even and even

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World Fair Trade Organization