Frequently Asked Questions | Mayan Fair Trade

We know you may have questions about our products, our mission, and how we work with Guatemalan Mayan artisan communities. Below you will find answers to the most common questions we receive. If you need anything else, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly.

Are these products truly authentic and handmade?

Yes, absolutely. Every piece offered at Mayan Fair Trade is handcrafted by skilled traditional artisans and weaver cooperatives in Guatemala, keeping centuries-old cultural techniques alive. A single huipil, for example, can take anywhere from 1 to 9 months to create by hand, depending on the complexity of the weave. Each of Guatemala's more than 800 villages has its own distinct textile patterns and colors, so every product carries a specific regional identity that connects you directly to the community where it was made.

Why does my item look slightly different from the website photo?

Because each item is individually handmade using traditional textiles (such as upcycled huipiles) or natural materials, no two pieces are identical. Slight variations in color, pattern alignment, or texture are the hallmarks of genuine artisanal work and make your piece completely unique. These differences are a sign of authenticity, not a flaw, and they are part of what makes handcrafted goods so special.

What does "Fair Trade" mean for your brand?

We believe in ethical commerce. We work directly with independent artisans and local cooperatives, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable economic support for their families and communities. Our artisans are paid before or upon delivery of their work, so they never have to go into debt to purchase raw materials. Roughly 80% of artisan-sector workers globally are women, which means your purchase directly supports female economic empowerment in Guatemala.

Where do you ship from, and how long does delivery take?

Orders are shipped directly from our operations. Standard international shipping typically takes 7 to 15 business days depending on the destination country. Domestic U.S. orders generally arrive sooner. You will receive an estimated delivery window at checkout based on your location.

Do you provide tracking information?

Yes! Once your order has been processed and dispatched, you will receive a confirmation email containing a tracking link so you can follow your package's journey step by step. If you do not see the email in your inbox, please check your spam or promotions folder.

Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes?

Depending on your country of residence, international shipments may occasionally be subject to local customs fees or import taxes. These charges, if any, are the responsibility of the buyer and are not included in the product price or shipping cost. We recommend checking with your local customs office if you are unsure about potential fees.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, and other secure digital payment options available at checkout. All transactions are processed through encrypted, secure payment gateways to protect your information.

Can I modify or cancel my order after it has been placed?

We process orders quickly to get them on their way to you. If you need to make a change or cancel, please contact us within 12 hours of placing your order, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. After that window, your order may already be in transit and changes may not be possible.

What is your return policy?

We want you to love your purchase. If you are unsatisfied with your item, you may return it within 10 to 14 days of delivery, provided it is unused and in its original condition. Please reach out to our support team to start a return, and we will guide you through the process.

How do I care for my handmade textile or leather goods?

Because traditional textiles (like embroidered huipil fabric) and genuine leather require special care, we recommend gentle spot cleaning or hand washing in cold water with mild soap for textiles. For leather items, avoid prolonged exposure to direct moisture or sunlight, and consider using a natural leather conditioner periodically to keep the material supple. Proper care will help your piece last for years and preserve the artisan's beautiful work.