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Building Sustainable Futures in Rural Ecuador
The ripple effect of fair trade practices and circular economy on forest communities.
March 26, 2026
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Toys, Decor & Curated Pieces
Explore unique, handcrafted
items with sustainable materials
A circular ecosystem that connects artisan craftsmanship, sustainable tourism, and forest conservation—creating value from what others discard while protecting Ecuador’s natural heritage.
Amalgama Toys
Handcrafted wooden toys designed to inspire creativity and connection with nature.
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We ship every piece with care, using secure payments, low‑impact packaging, and clear support if you need help along the way.
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Artisans & Stories
“Working with Amalgama has allowed me to support my family while keeping our craft traditions alive.”
Luis Mejía and Luisa Chimborazo
Puyo, Ecuador
Luisa & Luis Chimborazo
Wood & Balsa
Puyo, Pastaza
With over 35 years of experience working with balsa wood—an abundant and lightweight material from the Ecuadorian Amazon—Luisa and Luis, together with Amalgama, have embraced a more sustainable approach by incorporating reclaimed pine wood into their processes.
From this collaboration come modular, animal-inspired wooden toys designed to spark curiosity and promote environmental awareness through play.
Joel Suazo & Narcisa Illeanes
Wood Carving & Painting
Machala, El Oro — based in Baños, Tungurahua
Joel Suazo, originally from Machala, works with balsa wood through hand carving and painting, creating expressive pieces full of life. Together with his wife Narcisa, a Waorani woman from the Amazon, they have built a strong team that blends responsibility, cultural richness, and a joyful approach to making.
For nearly a decade, they have been part of the Amalgama network, sharing a commitment to environmental conservation through design and play. Each piece reflects their attention to detail, the value of craftsmanship, and a genuine connection to nature.
“Working with Amalgama has allowed me to support my family while keeping our craft traditions alive.”
Joel Suazo & Narcisa Illeanes
Machala, El Oro
“Working with Amalgama has allowed me to support my family while keeping our craft traditions alive.”
José Quinchiguango
Otavalo, Imbabura
José Quinchiguango
Wood Carving & Painting
Otavalo, Imbabura — based in Santa Cruz, Galápagos
José Quinchiguango, originally from Otavalo, is a visual artist, sculptor, and artisan specializing in wood carving using a grinder, combined with hand painting.
Now based in the Galápagos, he has become an expert sculptor of native wildlife, creating pieces that capture the essence and character of the archipelago’s species through detailed and expressive work.
Want to work with our artisan network?
Through Zemiya, we connect businesses, hotels, and organizations with our skilled artisans for custom projects and partnerships.
Crafted from Waste
Every Purchase Helps Turn Waste Into Wonder
Artisan families
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Materials recovered
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Forest communities
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High Touch Stories
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From Discarded Wood to Treasured Heirlooms
Meet the artisans transforming waste materials into beautiful, functional art through traditional techniques.
March 26, 2026
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Uncategorized
Protecting Ecuador’s Cloud Forest, One Toy at a Time
How circular design creates sustainable livelihoods while preserving critical biodiversity hotspots.
March 26, 2026
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