Black Shell Hand-Embroidered Shigra with Tagua Handle & Crossbody Strap Discover the beauty and heritage of Ecuador’s nearly extinct weaving tradition. These timeless pieces are crafted by skilled artisans using techniques passed down through generations. Shigras have historically been used by women from the mountains and jungle of Ecuador to carry food, seeds, and other essential items into the fields. Our Shigras are a testament to cultural preservation and sustainability. Each bag is made from the cabuya plant—also known as fique, penco, or agave—found only in Ecuador. The weaving process is labor-intensive and time-consuming, involving a series of intricate steps: the material is carefully harvested, pounded, soaked, shredded, boiled, and dyed, before being woven by hand using a small needle. This process can take up to 16 weeks to complete, ensuring that each piece is a work of art.