Goods from here are brought in via John Doughty, intrepid traveller and fair trade buyer of some 15 years. Silver plate workers in Mexico tend to be much poorer than the silversmiths and so need more support.
They can be open to new designs but retain the right to make their own decisions about their goods. Tin and ceramic mirrors are made by Luis Rodrigues in his workshop with great care and skill.
Guatemalan Indians regularly come to Chichicastananga to trade their wares and weaving is one of their specialisms. It is part of their way of life and, since they don't like routine, they tend to vary the patterns around a gorgeous range of striking colours - no fading into the background with these! As is the lot with many indigenous peoples, in their own country the Guatamalan Indians are the poorest of the poor.
