practical decor

Guatemalan artisan Liz Oliva skillfully sculpts the colorful flowers and leaves that grace the lid of this charming decorative jar from papier mache. Boasting a palette of delicate pink, purple, yellow and green shades, the glass jar is both beautiful and practical as it transcends its ornamental purposes and can be used to store beloved trinkets.

"Palm trees represent hedonism, relaxation and exoticism," says Guatemalan artist Spencer Samayoa while putting his skills and advanced woodcut printing techniques into practice. As an ancient art dating back to the 7th century, the xylograph print allows Spencer to create this mysterious scene of two palm trees peacefully moving to the rhythm of the wind.

The artwork, titled Viento Negro in Spanish, comes stretched.

An exotic bird perching on a branch embellishes this keychain carved by hand in dried calabash gourd by the artisans of Costa Rica's Guevara Cabalceta Family. The practical and fabulous accessory is crowned by a pinewood bead and comes with a nickel ring.

For this design, I chose a symbol of peace in practically all cultures and countries — a dove with an olive branch." says Alejandra Paiz of this delicate and unique beaded suncatcher. "It represents hope and the desire for a new and peaceful beginning on Earth. It's associated with purity and spirituality.

"I say a prayer for peace," the Guatemalan artisan continues. "And I ask that we pray it together. 'No more wars. We want peace. May this peace dove reach all the homes of the world.'

"The principles of peace are love, justice and truth. Nothing is more valuable than peace, and it's the basic starting point for humanity to progress.

"I share sensations of peace with the beautiful crystals that reflect the sun's light to illuminate the heart and soul. We seek that which gives meaning to our lives. Peace. Let's be a source of light instead of darkness."

Alejandra crafts the suncatcher by hand with crystal, glass and pewter beads, stainless steel ring and wire, a nickel chain and a zinc dove pendant.

This splendid decorative home accent adds pops of vibrant floral cheer with its hand-painted whimsical sunflower and leaf motif. Handcrafted from pinewood by Costa Rica’s Jessica Brenes, it delivers a warm “Welcome” message in Spanish alongside a convenient box for planters, storage and more. With its stylish and practical design, this lovely handmade accessory will brighten any space.

Pay homage to your beloved home with Jessica Brenes’ uplifting wall art, expertly handcrafted from pinewood in Costa Rica. It displays the message: “Home sweet home” in Spanish, accompanied by lovely hand-painted flowering cacti motifs. With a practical brass hanger, you can effortlessly display this delightful decorative accent that is also a constant reminder of the warmth and joy a home can bring.

Ring in the holidays with cheer courtesy of Guatemalan artisan Jose Arriola's delightful dove ornaments. Six vibrant birds, each boasting unique hand-painted floral and leaf motifs, are expertly handcrafted from ceramic and ready to adorn your Christmas tree on the accompanying red ribbons. Store the festive set safely in the gorgeous and practical hand-woven cotton bag, making organization a breeze when the season ends.