Meet the Artisans

The word 'Artisan' in Colombia represents highly skilled craftspeople who have learned their skills and techniques, from their own family, in their own home.

Most artisans have had little education yet they proudly operate their own traditional businesses.

As their businesses are their main source of income to support their families, they work tirelessly to overcome many obstacles to achieve their dreams of being valued and economically independent. 

Casa Bonita’s purpose is to:

• respect and work with the Artisans traditional business model
• economically empower Artisans and Indigenous women and their businesses 
• encourage creativity of each Artisan’s skills through collaborations in designing and curating our exclusive one-of-a-kind collections 
• assist in preserving the Artisans traditional techniques, so they impart to future generations 
• teach the Artisans export procedures and to share our alliances and supply chain

Casa Bonita is committed to connecting our customers with each Artisan; their products, culture, traditions, families and dreams! 

 Supporting Casa Bonita gives YOU:

• Power to positively impact the lives of 100’s of Indigenous communities
• Peace of Mind that artisans are paid a fair price for their products⁠
• Insight into their culture and businesses, enabling longevity of their traditions
• Knowledge that all products are ethical, sustainable and cruelty free
• Good Karma for supporting women both in South America and Australia ⁠

…and a colourful, unique and authentic shopping experience

Sandra Aguilar

Is it a family business? Do you employ other people or do you buy from other Artisans?

It is a family business made up of 37 families. However, the pandemic changed everything: the business had to stop for health reasons and because supplies have gone up in price.

What technique do you use? Detail the process and tell us what makes these products so unique.

We use the crochet technique. What makes our products unique is the dedication and time, because each of them focuses on something different (Juanito's mother is dedicated to handmade "chinchorros"). 

The designs are inspired by nature and by what they observe around them: the landscape, the sunset and sunrise. All their products are produced empirically, since the inspiration flows, they get up and weave what comes to them. 

What materials do you use?

Miratex synthetic yarn in Bogota and crochet needles.

Do you impact the community? How?

The business helps the community to sustain itself, since they live off what they sell. It also generates employment, teaches them to become independent, transmits the love for the art of  “la mochila”, and encourages them not to leave their studies behind.

How many people benefit from Casa Bonita's purchases?

37 families.

Social Impact: 

• provides financial security to Artisans and Indigenous tribes and their families
• empowers women’s economic independence 
• evokes self value and quality of life for the Artisans 
• creates legitimate employment opportunities for their communities 
• supports environmentally friendly business practices
• encourages creativity, and a sense of personal and group pride 
• acknowledges cultural identity and traditions 
• preserves and shares Ancestral and Indigenous techniques for future generations