Association Zaouia · Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
SIZE
1m 85cm x 1m 26cm x 1cm — 6ft 1in x 4ft 2in x 1in
WEIGHT
4263 g
MATERIALS
Cotton Thread and Wool
PRODUCT ID
#19623
The Beni-Ourain rug is used daily in the lives of local Moroccans. They are used for everything from bed covers to simple living room rugs. They can also be used for special occasions, like weddings. It is said that the women transfer their feelings into these rugs while crafting them.
See something off — or want to help the artisans improve? Rate this piece in Rate-o-Rama →
MEET THE MAKERS
Aicha Rahim
Aicha was born in Assakka, a village located an hour away from Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef. Her husband works different seasonal jobs to secure a minimal income. They have 3 daughters and 2 sons. Her oldest daughter is married and lives in the small city of Tounfite. Her second oldest daughter has finished high school. While the rest of her kids currently attend school. Aicha’s mother taught her how to weave as a young girl. She enjoys making traditional rugs and Hanbal rugs. She joined Association Zaouia in 2011, however did not make very many sales when they first began(They sold less than 5 rugs in three years). She hopes that by opening an online store, all the weavers will finally earn a real income. She hopes to earn enough to finally be able to fix her home and provide for her kids.
Meryam Achaoui
Meryam is from Zaouia. She had a limited education growing up. She left school, like most girls in her village, because there was no secondary school close by. She was able to learn how to weave at home as a child. She enjoys making rugs and Handira. She joined Association Zaouia in 2012, as a way to earn an income. She hopes to be able to support her mother's Hajj to Mecca.
VISIT THE VILLAGE
Association Zaouia hosts visitors in their village — share tea, watch the artisans at work, and see the craft up close. Visits start at $17 per person, and most of it goes straight to the group.
Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef, Morocco · about 4 hours from Fez
