ARTEZAN DESIGNS is a project that supports the hand weaving of pure silk from Herat, an ancient city in western Afghanistan, into beautiful silk shawls by Afghan women and their families living in Kabul. Afghan artisans produce all materials and work by hand using wooden looms.

At this time, this project supports ten families of nearly 100 people. It is our hope to help expand this cottage industry in Afghanistan, and provide employment to more Afghan women and their families. Economic revival is a key factor in the reconstruction and stabilization of this country.

The project is helping to support the arts and crafts industry in Afghanistan, and preserve techniques and designs that are in threat of disappearing after 24 years of war and political upheaval. The shawls use both traditional colors and design, as well as implement modern colors and new design.