Association Zaouia · Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
SIZE
2m 21cm x 1m 21cm x 3cm — 7ft 3in x 4ft x 1in
WEIGHT
6575 g
MATERIALS
Cotton Thread, Wool , and Walnut husks
PRODUCT ID
#19416
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.
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MEET THE MAKERS
Fathma Zerda
Fathma was born in Ait Heddab and moved to Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef after marrying her husband. They have eight kids: four daughters, three of which are married and one who is pursuing her studies. And four sons, three of which travel around doing small jobs and one who is pursuing quranic studies in the city of Agadir. She joined the weaver’s association, like most women, to help her family earn a better income in 2012. Fathma learned to weave when she was ten from her mother. She makes beni-ourain, handira and hanbel rugs. When she is not making rugs, she spends her time teaching other women how to weave. Her goal is to support her family members financially.
Nazha Imami
Imani was born and raised in Zaouia. While she is currently divorced, she does look after her son. She learned to weave as a young child. She is very skilled and can make rugs, Handira, and Hanbal. She joined Association Zaouia in 2013. Her goal is to continue working in order to support her only child.
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
