Weaving has long been a tradition among the Mayan women of Guatemala. Their daily attire consists of wearing Cortes (hand-woven skirts) and Huipiles (wee-peels, hand-embroidered poncho like blouses).Their attire originated during the Spanish conquest in order to identify the inhabitants of different villages. Due to economic pressures, most Mayan women struggle to continue to practice their traditional weaving skills. Farming is the usual source of income for Guatemalans living in the highlands. In order to offer these families a better source of income,Fair Trade works with Miguel Perez and his family to design a line of purses, accessories and coin bags. In our effort to preserve the ancient tradition of weaving our designs incorporate not only new textiles, but vintage textiles recycled from the traditional Guatemalan attire. The vintage textiles are re-sold in local markets. The Perez family now employs many villagers offering them a fair wage, lifestyle and community.