Impact

The “faja” (band) used to made this belt was handmade in a wooden loom by artisans in Otavalo, Ecuador. They are known for their beautiful handcrafts, especially textiles.

Taarach small atelier makes unique pieces transforming the Andean faja into contemporary belts.

Each belt is handmade with strict parameters of ethics and sustainability: we asure welfare to the people involved in making the belts., we have a zero waste policy, we generate a positive impact on the community and rescue and preserve indigenous crafts and cultural elements.

History shows that indigenous people from Los Andes and ethnic groups from all around the world, have used the traditional “faja” (band) as part of their clothing. The "faja" band could be used only as a decorative element, or for showing status, mythical or medical purposes.

This belts rescue and preserve elements of Andean cultures. The “faja” looming tradition is loosing importance; still there are some artisans like María and her family that continue living from it.