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Ergonomic benches for Guatemalan backstrap weavers

$5,325

$2,674

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Ergonomic benches for Guatemalan backstrap weavers

Common Variation of the Traditional Posture

When pressure and pain build up in the weaver's knees from kneeling, it's common for them to shift their hips to the side to temporarily relieve some of the knee symptoms. However, side-sitting results in twisting stress to the weaver's neck, back, and shoulders. Because the loom and the weaver are one, the twisting force is transmitted to the textile too, causing unevenness in the design and quality of the cloth.

The Synergo Ergonomic Solution

Synergo's Backstrap Weaving Bench provides women with a viable alternative to the traditional kneeling posture. The bench rocks with the rhythm of the weaver's body as she works with the backstrap loom. The bench is padded, and can be adjusted to fit the individual weaver. The interlocking footrest provides stability and leverage.

Textile, Close up

Example of weaving with the backstrap loom.

Mayan Women

Women wearing traditional garments woven with the backstrap loom.

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Funded

Thanks to 30 donors like you, a total of $5,325 was raised for this project on GlobalGiving. Combined with other sources of funding, this project raised enough money to fund the outlined activities and is no longer accepting donations.

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