Find the right artisan partner for your brand
There are so many incredible artisans in Guatemala. How do you know that an artisan partner is the right match for you? Let’s gets started by answering a few questions that will help guide us.
1) Do you prefer to produce a traditional Guatemalan textile with a twist, or an entirely custom design that might be new to Guatemala?
If you prefer to work with a traditional design, we start by identifying the origin of the design, and find a weaver interested and capable of working with us in the origin community if possible. It can require a lot of travel time to find the right partner. This is how I (Averie) decided on my nerdy Instagram handle: Textile Trekker. I have literally hiked up hillsides to meet the best artisans for a specialized technique!
To develop a custom textile not traditionally made in Guatemala requires a partner interested in working outside of the box and who has the capabilities to translate a design from a spec sheet into a physical product. Projects like these have been some of our favorites to work on. It is so rewarding to witness the pride the artisans have in their technique!
2) What is your budget?
Building a budget can be challenging! However, a budget can provide us a guide for which techniques to explore in your product line. Many artisans are experts in specialized techniques (e.g. backstrap, footloom, embroidery, ikat/jaspe, natural dye…..). This variety of techniques offered in Guatemala provides us with many options to explore for a range of budgets.
3) What is your production calendar?
We know that you’re here because we all believe in the beauty of handmade craftsmanship, and we appreciate the time it takes to create something special!
If your brand operates on a seasonal product timeline, have no fear. We work with many artisans who can accommodate a seasonal schedule and together we develop a realistic calendar for the handcrafted product we are making.
Alternatively, a flexible product launch schedule allows us more time to experiment. We can explore new and rare techniques with expert artisans throughout all of Guatemala. Let’s push the creative boundaries together!
Do you already have the answers to these questions? Start your journey to find the right artisan partner now!
