Fatima

Meet the Artisan is an interview series where we dive deeper into the background of the Amazigh artisans who are the backbone of Salam Hello. Our mission is to preserve and share the tradition and symbolism—from our artisans’ hands to your home. Each interview explores their history with the weaving tradition, how and when they were taught and what they like to do beyond the loom.

Fatima belongs to the Women-Only Association that is located in the Village of Anzal, located about 30 km north of the popular weaving town of Tazenakht. The Anzal collective was founded in 2007 and is kept alive by women passing the craft down through the generations.

When did you learn how to weave and who taught you?
In 1996, at the age of 16, I was taught the skill of weaving. After persistent requests, my mom finally decided it was time to teach me. As the eldest of four siblings—two younger brothers and one younger sister—I later assisted my sister Meriem in learning to weave when she became a teenager.


Observing my mom leading the association in our village during my upbringing, I now find pride in running the association alongside my sister, showcasing our collective abilities.

Do you have a favorite technique to weave?
My preferred technique is the hand-knot style, often the first one many weavers learn, and it happens to be Meriem’s favorite as well. This method allows for the most amount of freedom to bring my creative thoughts to life. Additionally, I find joy in crafting intricate designs through the embroidery technique.


What rug do you cherish the most?
Being a member of the Ait Ouaouzguite tribe, I take great pride in the diverse rugs we create. Our specialty lies in Glouai rugs, intricate pieces that fuse various techniques and carry rich symbolic motifs.


What do you love to do beyond weaving?
Outside of weaving, I find joy in traveling, raising my three children, and building a sense of community by assisting others in the village.


Another passion of mine is sharing our traditions with outsiders. Hosting people, sharing our food, and showcasing traditional weaving techniques bring me happiness.

Thanks so much for the inspiring convo, Fatima! Shop pieces woven by Fatima and her colleagues here and below!

Translated by Abdellatif Mouhsine. Please note that some answers may have been edited or condensed for the sake of clarity.