Y’abal Handicrafts is a Guatemalan artisan organization that supports indigenous women’s weaving cooperatives, providing them with local and international markets.

Y’abal seeks to increase the opportunities and quality of life for women in the Western Highlands of Guatemala while preserving the traditional art of back-strap weaving. Mixing the traditional with the contemporary, Y’abal creates modern and stylish products that maintain centuries-old cultural symbols and weaving techniques.

Y’abal Handicrafts works under fair trade conditions- ensuring that the women weavers earn a livable wage. With a focus on women as the key to family development, Y’abal provides workshops and general support to assist in the success of each individual and family. These workshops focus on administration, accounting, mathematics, economics, sewing classes, communication, leadership, working in teams, and self-esteem. In addition, Y’abal supports a local medical clinic, micro-credit program, and various other community projects.

When you buy Y’abal hand-woven products you not only contribute directly to the economic self-sufficiency of the women we work with, but your purchase also supports the workshops and social programs implemented in the communities.