Testimonials
See what previous participants have said about their Textile Travels in Guatemala
Planning experiences based on mutual creative understanding since 2018. Reinvesting earnings into production with rural artisan partners.
I knew from research that Guatemala would be a nice country to visit but this trip far exceeded my expectations. The lovely surroundings, the sunny weather, the beautiful mountains covered in wildflowers, the ancient stone buildings and cobbled streets all made for a great place for a vacation. But the best part was the wonderful people we met, both our trip leaders and the local artisans we worked with. Our trip leader, Evelyn, made sure that all transportation, hotels, restaurants, and activities went smoothly. She was the sweetest person ever, caring and considerate, always smiling and helpful and served as an interpreter for those who didn't speak Spanish. Abigail, the master dyer, was very clear in her explanations and instructions on the dying process. I am a novice at both dying and weaving and enjoyed learning about the various plants and methods used. We visited a wonderful garden where the plants are harvested both for medicinal and dying use, and attended workshops with several different groups of local dyers. We went to a weavers collective and had demonstrations of both back stop weaving and the large foot looms. We had many opportunities to learn about and participate in cultural activities. Overall it was a fantastic trip and highly recommend it!"
-Lane
"This trip has changed my life in ways I never imagined. The people at Kakaw Designs were lovely and worked to create an experience that was both cultural and educational. We began the week at Doña Eve’s home village 15 mins from Antigua. We started the morning working on Eve’s patio overlooking the village. We chose our colors, wound our yarns, and began making our warp."
-Jaime
"Guatemala has been on my textile travel wish list for years, so when I spotted Mari's trip I snapped up the opportunity and oh what a treat it turned out to be! Antigua is an absolute delight, but it was extra special being taken off the beaten track by Mari into the rural villages and meeting the wonderful artisans and cooperative groups in their homes. The workshops were a highlight and it was a privilege to spend creative time with the charming and very patient artisans who happened to be great cooks too! An unexpected bonus being treated to their traditional homemade dishes. At all times, I felt totally safe and reassured in Mari's capable and calm hands plus traveling in a small group was really pleasant. The moment I left, I longed to return, thank you Mari, it was textile heaven!"
-Ricky
"I participated in the Textile Travel group thinking I’d learn and be exposed to areas of Guatemala that aren’t visited by most travelers. And it was so much more, you learn to appreciate the artistry of handmade textiles made by the wonderful women of Guatemala. Actually meeting many of the women who made the textiles. Traveling with a small group was enjoyable. Having the itinerary planned by knowledgeable guides made the experience rich and rewarding, while being relaxing for us travelers. I can’t wait to join in another trip."
-Paula
"Traveling with Kakaw was such a fantastic experience. I loved that the other participants were as excited as I was about really learning new skills. The individual instructors were master weavers, dye artists, and embroiderers, and being welcomed into their homes for meals and workshops was such a great experience. The whole trip was really thoughtful and well planned. I came away with a few new skills and a pronounced appreciation for the work that goes into the beautiful textiles of Guatemala."
-Amanda
"As someone who has spent some time in Guatemala and admires textiles, it was wonderful to join Kakaw’s textile trip. I really enjoyed the backstrap weaving workshop as not only did I learn so much about the weaving process by watching expert weavers and working on my own loom, it was great to take home a piece that I could tell the story behind. I enjoyed chatting with Lidia and her family and hearing how weaving knowledge has been passed down and how the styles of huipiles in San Antonio have changed over time. Plus the pepian lunch was delicious! Thanks for the unique experience, Kakaw!"
-Emmy
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