This April we traveled to Guatemala to visit the weaving and beading co-ops around Lake Atitlán. In the highlands around the lake, the weaving center Mujeres Analisadores is comprised of 26 Kaqchikel women who specialize in the pedal loom, back strap loom, and beading. These artisan techniques are completely manual with no electricity. They are a special part of preserving the Mayan culture and heritage. What an incredible experience to be in the same room as these talented women who are leaders in their community. Here is a closer look. The Pedal Loom First, the thread for the warp is spun onto cones. The warp threads are being prepared for the loom. The setup is a team effort, especially this...
Do you want to be responsible with your shopping practices, but unsure of where to begin? It feels overwhelming, but the best way to get involved with fair trade is to start where you are already shopping. We took a little field trip to our local Target to uncover some fair trade items that are easily accessible, and you may be surprised to learn about what is available at this chain! Let's celebrate the small steps with them, and respectfully ask for more. They are paying attention to how we vote with our dollar and it counts. Look for these third party certifications on hang tags: International Fair Trade Certification Most often on foods and produce Fair Trade Certification Organization...
Mending engages us with our clothing. You will learn so much about quality, fiber, drape, structure, and sustainability by mending your garments by patching them!
Simple Holiday Decor Ideas Christmastime decorations are not often associated with a "less is more" minimalist mentality. candles, greenery, and nostalgia can create that magical feeling of the holiday without overdoing it. Here is a roundup of simple holiday decor inspiration. More can be found on our pin board: Simple Holiday 1. Candles A fire place is not in every home, but candles can be. Their magical tone matches the magical quality of the season. Use them! Han Bullivant wrote the book on simple holiday decoration, literally! You can buy her ebook on simple, eco Christmas decoration. The photo above is linked from her IG. The neutral table cloth blend with the white candles and give energy to the amber vases...
Wishing you happy holidays in the form of a free stocking pattern. Enjoy! Download Large Stocking Approximately 6 1/2" x 23" when finished. Download Small Stocking Approximately 6" x 21" when finished. We'd love to see what you make! @fairandsimple #thesimplestocking #madebywomenpatterns Print your pattern on US letter and A4 paper sizes with landscape orientation. Check the 1" square test box to ensure that no shrinkage or enlargement occurred during printing. Cut around the border of your printed pattern and use the numbers and letter circles to tape it together. Cut around the stocking shape to make your pattern. Stockings are a great way to repurpose a wool blanket or old flannel because the raw edges do not fray easily....
