A group of women in a small town in the Mexican State of Guerrero is working to preserve their ancient handcrafts. Using the traditional techniques of hand-spinning, dyeing and weaving they create the most beautifully embroidered and colourful huipiles, (highly decorated blouses) as well as shawls, table runners, napkins and cushions. All feature the traditional designs of the region.
In 1969 a co-operative was founded in the town of Xochislahuaca with a mission to rescue, preserve and promote the ancient handcraft techniques of spinning, dyeing and hand-weaving.
In November they have been invited to attend the Feria Maestros del Arte in Chapala, Jalisco to demonstrate their skills and display and sell these stunning and highly collectible handcrafted textile products.
We are really excited about attending the Feria again this year. It’s fantastic to be able to meet these and other artisans who are all working to preserve their ancient skills.
With no intermediaries and being able to buy direct not only guarantees extraordinarily good bargains it also contributes to support these artisans, their families and villages and their traditional handcraft skills which would otherwise disappear. Mexico is a vibrant and exciting destination and Ajijic, where we stay, is home to a lively group of ex-pats and a vibrant artistic community. Guaranteed to surprise and delight. Easily accessible with flights to Guadalajara from L.A. where you will be met and hosted for 9 gloriously relaxing days. It’s slow travel at its very best.
