Weaving

Weaving is an ancient textile art and craft that involves placing two sets of threads or yarn made of fiber called the warp and weft of the loom and turning them into cloth. This cloth can be plain (in one color or a simple pattern), or it can be woven in decorative or artistic designs, including tapestries.

The majority of commercial fabrics are woven on computer-controlled Jacquard looms. In the past, simpler fabrics were woven on other dobby looms and the Jacquard harness adaptation was reserved for more complex patterns. The efficiency of the Jacquard loom makes it more economical for mills to use them to weave all of their fabrics, regardless of the complexity of the design.

Hand weaving, along with hand spinning, is a popular craft. Weavers use wooden looms to create rugs, fabrics, and tapestries. Fabric in which the warp and/or weft is tie-dyed before weaving is called ikat. Fabric decorated using a wax resist method is called batik.

Process

In general, weaving involves the interlacing of two sets of threads at right angles to each other: the warp and the weft. The warp's many threads are held taut and in parallel order by means of a loom. The loom is dressed, or set up, with the warp threads. The weft threads can be wound onto shuttles. The weft thread crosses the warp in some over/under sequence. The nature of that sequence gives rise to many possible patterns and structures from the simplest plain weave, through twills and satins to complex computer-generated interlacing.

Both warp and weft can be visible in the final product. By spacing the warp more closely, it can completely cover the weft that binds it, giving a warp-faced textile. Conversely, if the warp is spread out, the weft can slide down and completely cover the warp, giving a weft faced textile, such as a tapestry or a Kilim rug. There are a variety of loom styles for hand weaving and tapestry. In tapestry, the image is created by only placing weft in certain areas, rather than in the weave structure itself.

Yerba Mate

Pronounced yerba mahtay, this South American drink is very popular in Argentina and similar to tea. However, what makes Yerba Mate so unique is not only its flavor but is beneficial ingredients as well. In fact, this particular drink is so popular that in Buenos Aires and other cities in Argentina, people carry it around with them all day long, sipping as they go through their normal day, much as Americans would sip on soda.

This "tea" is a natural stimulant that produces zero side effects and toxicity levels. As a natural source of nutrition, Yerba Mate also promotes good health. This drink was first introduced from colonists where it was used by the ancient Guarani Indians of Paraguay and Argentina. Today, Yerba Mate is popular around the world and for good reason, as you will soon discover.

Said to boost immunity, heal the nervous system, detoxify the blood, slow down aging, restore healthy hair, fight fatigue, decrease the appetite, reduce stress, combat insomnia, and a number of other benefits, you can see why it is such a popular drink. The "mate" part of the drink is actually a member of evergreen that falls within the holly family.

Grown wild in South America, it is very aromatic with a slight bitter taste. Interesting, when grown in the wild, it takes about 25 years for the plant to develop to maturity. In the late fall and early winter months, the plant will actually produce beautiful flowers. Just as with any other type of tea, Yerba Mate is typically brewed as a cold or hot drink, using tea bags or loose, dried tea.

The traditional cup used to drink Yerba Mate is called Mate, which when originally made was a dried and decorated gourde. To prepare Yerba Mate, dried minced leaves are placed into the Mate or cup, adding hot water. Then, the fusion is sucked up through a metal or wood pipe called a Bombilla, which is designed with a strainer on the end to prevent the small pieces of tea from going into the mouth.

Some people prefer to add milk and/or sugar, or other herbs such as mint to enhance the flavor. In this case, you would use hot milk in place of the hot water. Although at first the taste is foreign, there is something about it that makes you want to go back for more. Then when you realize your body is energized, your mind is stimulated, you begin to lose weight, sickness starts to fade, and you feel better overall, you really become hooked on Yerba Mate. With its powerful stimulant effects and loaded with minerals and vitamins, people in Argentina and other parts of South America love it, and so will you.

TAGUA NUT CARVINGS FROM PANAMA

The tagua nut has a strong resemblance to animal ivory, making it a wonderful resource for creating all types of beautiful things. For many years, the tagua nut was used primarily for making buttons but with new technology and more affordable materials such as plastics, a decline began. Even so, the tagua nut still has value in the making of other things to include chess set pieces, jewelry, handles for canes, dice, figurines, etc. In fact, many of the Victorian jewelry pieces made from the tagua nut are quite expensive.

The positive aspect of the tagua nut is that just one tree produces enough ivory to equal that of a female elephant trunk, meaning by choosing tagua, innocent animals are spared. Because of this, today we see the tagua nut again becoming very popular as more and more people are fighting to protect endangered species used for ivory. The only downfall is that these nuts, which grow in the rainforests of Panama, Ecuador, and a few other places around the world, are all harvested by hand to ensure the trees are not harmed. As you can imagine, the process is labor intensive. However, it does create needed jobs in these areas of the world!

The other benefit of using the tagua nut from Panama is that the rainforest is being protected as a sustainable income for the people. By growing these trees and keeping them harvested, forests are not degrading into poor quality land. That means the rainforest can remain a beautiful part of our world while the local tribesmen have income that helps when caring for their families.

The tagua tree is more like a palm tree that will grow upwards of 30 feet tall. Thriving on the damp areas of the rainforest, you will actually find different species of the tagua palm. As the tagua nut grows, it develops into protected clusters, each consisting of several egg-sized nuts. When the nuts are young, they are very tender, almost jelly like. Inside the young nuts is a special type of liquid that the people living in the rainforest love to drink. Additionally, many of the animals eat the tagua nut as a part of their regular diet. Then, as the tagua nut matures, it becomes extremely hard and durable, thus becoming a perfect choice for magnificent creations.

Tagua nut carvings from Panama have been such a great source of income for the forest people, giving them back self-sufficiency and pride. Many of these people are no longer able to live a full tribal life simply because of the demise of the rainforest so this type of harvesting allows them to retain their sense of self and history. Today, we sadly see many highways and modern buildings being built right through rainforests, causing this natural resource to erode. The good news is that many organizations have been formed to protect this type of land, with great success.

Once the tagua nuts are picked from the ground, the artisans carve them into amazing pieces. Interestingly, these carvings are so detailed and perfect, that many have become prized collections throughout the world. You will find that many of the tagua nut carvings from Panama depict the nature of the rainforest to include monkeys, birds, and various other animals. In fact, the carvings are typically considered an artistic expression for these tribal men, giving them the opportunity to incorporate their feelings, dreams, and aspirations into the designs.

In addition to figurines, the tagua nut is also commonly used for making everyday eating and cooking utensils. Some of the spirit sticks were used for ceremonies by the rainforest shamans (witch doctors) as well. Today, you can visit the Bernheim Gallery, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and Panama Audubon Society all displaying many of these beautiful pieces. For this reason, collectors around the globe try to get their hands on any type of carving, viewing them as incredible pieces of art.

TAGUA NUT CARVINGS FROM ECUADOR

Located in the northwest portion of Ecuador, a unique venture began called the Tagua Initiative was formed. This began in 1990 by Conservation International as a means of creating economic incentives associated with the tagua palm nut, trying to find a way for the harvests to be sustained. Because of this initiative, today we see almost 2,000 people belonging to the Comuna Rio Santiago-Cayapas, holding down jobs. However, these jobs depend on the rainforest being left unharmed, allowing the tagua nut to continue growing.

The tagua plant is somewhat like a palm tree that produces a nut. When this nut is young it tender, being filled with a liquid that the people living in the rainforest drink. However, as the tagua nut matures, it becomes very hard at which time it falls from the tree. Once on the ground, the people harvest it to create amazing things. Interesting, the nuts that are not used for carving are created into "bricks" used as a fuel source because of the high heat production.

The tagua plant must grow for about 20 years before it starts to produce fruit. Even so, the nuts are not good for harvesting for five to eight years after fruit is produced. Therefore, it is not a plant that could be profitable but its nuts are. The root system of this plant has a 98% survival rate if burned. Therefore, even if there were to be a horrendous fire, the tree would be rained on and continue to grow. Because the tree produces such a versatile nut, by purchasing things made from the tagua, the rainforest is being protected.

Although the tagua plant can be found in other places, Ecuador is just one of a few countries where you can find it. Because the tagua nut is hard and resistant, while still being beautiful, it is considered a prized possession, often used in the making of precious jewelry. Other things the tagua nut is used for include chess set pieces, figurines, key chains, buttons, and much more.

Prior to plastic buttons being introduced in the United States, approximately 20% were actually made from the tagua nut. In fact, during the 1920's, $5 million annually was brought into Ecuador for the exportation of the tagua buttons. These buttons, along with the other type of tagua carvings are often called vegetable ivory because of the color and texture. Since animal ivory is on the decline, the tagua nuts have been considered a great substitute without anything being harmed.

Sadly, much of the rainforest area in this part of the world has been destroyed. However, this Comuna sits by the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, which is a very diverse area and one that is protected. This is an important hotspot since today, less than 1% of the earth is covered by rainforest hotspots yet it contains as much as 40% of biodiversity. Therefore, the Ecological Reserve protects this area so that workers can continue making their tagua nut carvings.

SHIPIBO POTTERY FROM PERU

The Shipibo people live near the Ucayali River in areas of eastern Peru around in the Amazon Basin. These natives are extremely talented, making distinctive pottery that is traditional for their lifestyles. For example, Shipibo vases are handmade and then decorated using natural pigments from the earth. The geometric designs are representation of the visions of the Shipibo people, which is why this type of pottery is so unique and prized.

After the creation of a Shipibo vase or other piece of pottery, they are decorated and then fired in low heated, open fires. When done, the pieces of pottery are finished with a vegetable-based compound that makes it waterproof while creating a gorgeous sheen. These people live deep in the Amazon rainforest. Although they live a primitive life with limited contact with outside civilizations, the pottery made is unbelievable beautiful.

The men of the tribe are hunters and gatherers that still practice head hunting. However, the women are the pottery makers. Typically, clay is found, which takes several days in a dugout canoe to reach. The clay is then mixed with ashes coming from the bark of trees growing in the area. This mixture is then ground up into small fragments of broken pottery. From this, each piece is hand crafted, without using a potter's wheel.

The sides of the pottery are made thin, which is what makes each pottery piece so amazingly lightweight. Once the pieces have dried in the warm sun for several days, the clay goes through the firing process. The white base color is created from a clay slip whereas the red and black geometric designs come from the process of boiling bark. Then, resin is obtained from tree sap, which gives the Shipibo pottery its unique glaze.

Most often, you would see the design of a cross and serpent. However, the geometric patterns are all easily recognized and characteristic of things seen in everyday life. For example, for special occasions, the decorations on the Shipibo pottery will depict a face and a body, which is believed to be a magical and religious expression. However, outsiders are not quite sure of the true meaning.

Keep in mind that Shipibo pottery actually started for utilitarian purposes. Pieces would be used for eating, preserving food, carrying water, and so on. However, as the Shipibo people discovered money and the things it could buy, they began selling the pottery, thus getting word out to the rest of the world about their amazing talent. Unfortunately, the trip to reach the market for the Shipibo people is a long, dangerous one.

SAN PEDRO DE CAJAS TAPESTRY FROM PERU

Peru is known for many incredible things, one being the San Pedro de Cajas tapestry. Absolutely, exquisite this tapestry is all hand woven, made from 90% sheep wool and just 10% cotton. San Pedro de Cajas tapestry is vibrantly colored using all-natural dyes that come from cochineal insects. The patterns are all very, distinct, boasting white houses, red roofs, and magnificent green backgrounds. The fascinating thing about this type of Peruvian tapestry is that it can be displayed from either front or back with two wood dowels that are stretched across both top and bottom.

San Pedro de Cajas sits high in the Andes Mountains of Peru about 13,000 feet up. Each tapestry design is washed, dyed, and brushed prior to the start of the weaving process. The artisans are both male and female, each working hard to ply wool and dye. In fact, you will find entire families involved with the tapestry making process. The wool used comes from the area, which allows the dye to work beautifully.

The region of San Pedro de Cajas received its name from the legend of the patron saint named San Pedro who came to Cesar Yuri Roman in a dream. In this dream, San Pedro asked Cesar to return to his town to help but Cesar did not take the dream seriously, instead ignoring the request of San Pedro. However, just a few days later, a massive mudslide destroyed Cesar's business. With this, a broke Cesar returned to San Pedro de Cajas, starting a new tapestry weaving business, a skill that had been passed down through his family.

Determined to reconcile the damage he had caused himself, Cesar worked on a particular weaving of the image of a saint. Unfortunately, the ancient traditions and techniques were crude, making it impossible. At that time, only geometrical shapes could be woven. However, still determined to succeed, Cesar developed a new technique, which he called padding. With this, he could work the tapestry in more detail with realistic designs and figures. The new system was very, successful, leading other local artisans to adopt it for their own designs.

Because the San Pedro de Cajas tapestries have such incredible colors and intricate designs, they have become exceedingly popular and in high demand. From that time forward, the tapestries have continued to grow in popularity and today, people from around the world visiting Peru can visit Cesar's tapestry museum. His success with color and design was so incredible that the local government honored him with the title of Doctor in Craftsmanship that came along with a beautiful medal.

With the blend of materials and the hand looming, you will fall in love with the San Pedro de Cajas tapestries. What most people comment on are the clear, vibrant colors and realistic designs. In fact, these tapestries are generally considered art more so than textile. If you have a chance to get your hands on one of these tapestries, you will have a lifelong treasure!

QUINUA AYACUCHO POTTERY FROM PERU

Plaza de Armas is a place located in Peru where potters made Quinua Ayacucho pottery. Of all art forms in Peru, pottery lands at the top of the list. You will find a number of interesting techniques, shapes, colors, and designs. However, most of these are specific to the region within Peru in which the pottery is made.

The town of Quinua is most known for the talent of the potters. They are famous for manufacturing pieces of pottery known as "Quinua Ceramics". Each of these pieces is designed to display local customs. Quinua is just 23 miles from the capital city and is the site of the Battle of Ayacucho where the country received its independence when fighting against Spanish troops.

In addition to Quinua Ayacucho pottery, this city is also famous for the high quality of red and cream clay that is used to make the pottery pieces. Although the forms and techniques are simple, almost child-like, the results are what amaze people. Many of the pottery pieces are chapels, churches, bulls, and houses. However, it is also common to see figurines of peasant farmers, neighbors busy gossiping, and religious themes.

Now, you can purchase Quinua Ayacucho pottery from a number of shops that specialize in these pieces or if you prefer, directly from one of the artisans who will sign the piece made. Of all the pottery pieces, the chapel and churches are the most popular. Typically, these ceramic pieces are used on mantles, bookshelves, or tables. Interestingly, the church pottery piece is used to protect homes from evil spirits, which is why you see them displayed.

When visiting Quinua, you can visit the Plaza area by climbing the charming cobblestone walkway. The buildings in this town are whitewashed and there is even a quaint village church. These pottery pieces are exported around the globe because of the quality and whimsy of each piece. In fact, the local people have become quite good at marketing the products, getting word out about these brightly colored pottery pieces. However, today you will even find Quinua Ayacucho pottery made in pastel colors, something unheard of years ago. In fact, original pieces were all earth tone.

Although you will find more and more modern pieces of pottery being developed you can certainly still buy the traditional church or other figurines. While there are many skilled artisans that make Quinua Ayacucho pottery, one of the most famous artists is Mamerto Sanchez. As you walk along the main road, you will find a number stalls where pieces are sold.

POTTERY INSTRUMENTS FROM SOUTH AMERICA

Pottery made in South America varies dramatically based on the tribes and regions. For years, the people of Mexico, along with South and Central America tried to make pottery creations using low fired clay. Pottery and ceramic was done by hand and then fired in large outdoor kilns. Typically, you would see creations for everyday things to include jugs, pipes, cooking pots, whistles, jugs, tiles, and a number of other things.

Interestingly, musical instruments were commonly made from pottery. Although these instruments began as domestic cooking pots, the South American people discovered that when the pots contained varying levels of food or drink, they produced different sounds. Among the most popular creations were whistles and flutes. In fact today, if you were to visit South America, you would find globular flutes everywhere used to imitate objects to include deer skulls and conch shells.

The whistling jars from South America are called "silbador", which are made by connecting a number of pots that have a spout on the end and then the special whistle mechanism on the other side. These pots are then filled with water and rocked back and forth to create movement. The movement of the water changes the level of air that pushes over the whistle, thus the different sounds. The earliest such whistle is dated back to 500 AD.

Many of these pots were created in the shape of a parrot, monkey, or some other animal. Keep in mind that while many of these instruments have a number of chambers, this does not change the sound as once believed. Now, the globular flutes found today are created with an air duct and stop. One such example found in Mexico and Malaya is shaped as a bird. Also unique to South America are pottery panpipes, which are made by pressing clay onto a cane core and then joined with several of varying lengths, which produces the different sounds. Typically, the blowhole is elliptical that helps to make the sound easier.

When compared with flutes, pottery trumpets are a rare find even though they were distributed widely throughout Europe, India, Western Europe, parts of Africa, and South America. Taking the clue from conch shells, pottery imitations soon followed, known as "potuto". Another pottery instrument coming out of South America is called the "intambula", which is a drum that has a skin held over it by one man while a second man beats on it. More commonly known in the United States as a kettle drum, these drums were designed a little different in that they did not have an open end and they can be tuned. For drums, two-headed pottery styles are very hard to find although some still exist in some Indian villages found only in North America.

Another common instrument made from pottery in South America is the rattle. Experts believe these instruments were copies of gourd rattles. Depending on the rattle, some are designed with a rattlesnake molded on the outside, which is a suggestion of the rattling sound produced. In most cases, these pottery instruments are very elaborately decorated and used for special ceremonies. Throughout the years, archaeologists have been able to uncover different types of South America pottery, giving them an important look into the people and types of natural materials used. The pottery unearthed also provided a glimpse into settlement patterns of the settlers, religious beliefs, and agricultural practices. We have learned much from the South American people through their work with pottery, recreating many of the styles that are so rich in history.

The Ocarina

The Ocarina is a handcrafted musical instrument that produces a sound similar to that of a flute. This ancestral instrument looks more like a modern bike racing helmet than an instrument. The Ocarina has been around for tens of thousands of years and played to create beautiful music. In its basic form, the Ocarina was used in the Stone Age and some of the earliest models have been unearthed by archaeologists in Central Africa.

Even so, the Ocarinas have also been made and played in various parts of the world. For instance, in China, they are known as Hsuan, in France a Cou-Cou, and then in Italy, Ocarina, which actually translates to "Sweet Little Goose." This simple instrument works on a very basic principle just as the flute. There is a mouthpiece designed with an airway that works by forcing a smooth breath through the slit, which then goes across the window and onto the reed or lip. With this, the air breaks into vortexes, giving rise to the oscillations that are heard by the different finger placements on the holes.

For the finger holes, these are simple chambers making the tone of the sound change. As with other instruments, the Ocarina also has a musical scale known as the "Four Hole Western Hole". As you look at the Ocarina, you will notice there are four holes of varying sizes. Because of the way that the holes are strategically placed, when playing you can easily slide the finger from on hole to the next. Although it takes a little practice as with any other instrument, with practice and patience, you will soon get the hang of it.

The Ocarina is also designed in a number of art forms. For example, the songbird is bright blue and because of the special design, the sound is superb. Most are made by being placed on a potter's wheel and then altered and changed until the sound is clean and smooth. The clay is fired at high temperatures, giving the Ocarina a smooth surface. Each instrument is made by hand so each instrument is a one-of-a-kind.

When played by Central and South American natives, the Ocarina produces an almost eerie sound, one that is rich and distinct. The shape of the Ocarina is globular, often with an angled or pointed type front that does not change with the change of the weather. To clean the instrument, you can actually place it in the dishwasher in most cases or wash it by hand.

Whether making an Ocarina that is brightly colored with geometrical shapes, one in the shape of an animal, or perhaps one that is rustic like you would see natives using, this type of instrument is fun to own and very inexpensive to buy. You can check out the various search engines and simply type in "ocarinas" to see all the amazing styles.

Nicaraguan pottery

Nicaraguan pottery is absolutely, beautiful and today, very popular. Certain Spanish colonists known as the Gallegos and Bracamonte settled in Nicaraguan sometime in the late 1500s. The village was called San Juan el Batista, which years later, was renamed to San Juan de los Platos because of the successful pottery industry. In fact, the Spaniards were paid in the form of pottery. Then when Nicaragua became independent from Spain in 1821, the village was again renamed, this time to San Juan de Oriente.

Interestingly, the making of pottery was considered work only to be performed by women, as well as other domestic chores to include cleaning, cooking, and caring for the children. In fact, the women living in San Juan made the pieces of pottery all by hand, just as their ancestors had done, using a free form design and coil method. The firing of the pottery was down outside in a campfire where the pieces would be fired quickly in an open flame, usually from one to three hours. Today, you will still find some woman in San Juan still using this same method.

In addition, oxen pulled carts are still seen, each pulling clay in burlap sacks coming from the farms as they head into the city. The clay is taken to the workshop where artisans empty the clay from the bags into a hole, filled with water to help soften it. The next day, the clay is soft enough to be worked, at which time sand is added. Then, the clay is put on top of a sack at which time it is stamped to help soften it further while also blending in the sand and working out any unwanted air bubbles. This process generally takes about three hours, which is per mix.

After the clay has been softened and blended, it is massages by hand, clearing out roots and rocks. One person will dedicate up to 16 hours, again for one mix. At this point, the clay is stomped on by foot and then ready to be formed. The artisan then takes a ball of the clay and using a kick wheel will begin to shape it into many different shapes. Then, it is cut from the wheel using a piece of nylon. The clay is set aside and the pieces all turned upside down, allowing the indentation to form for the base. For this process, it takes anywhere from 5 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the ball and the skill level of the artisan.

Once all the pieces of clay have been shaped, the surface is polished. With this process, any smaller roots or stones can be seen or felt, allowing the potter to remove them and continue with the polishing. When this is done, the clay is smooth and the surface ready for color. For just the polishing portion of the procession, it takes the artisan between 10 and 30 minutes per piece.

Now, once all the pieces of clay are smooth, black liquid clay is painted on. This special clay known as "black clay" or "cogove" comes from El Sonce. When diluted with water and then strained over several days, what remains is the black clay. In fact, some natives will use black clay as face paint. However, for making Nicaraguan pottery, several layers are applied. Once all the pieces of clay are painted, they are placed into a plastic bag and allowed to dry up to seven days. After completely drying, the clay again undergoes the polishing phase with a flat-type instrument.

The next phase involves applying a layer of Oxido de Zinc, which is bone white oxide. The tone creates a nice base on which additional color can be painted onto the pottery. Again, the wet pieces are placed in a plastic bag where they dry for 2 to 10 hours. After drying, the Nicaraguan pottery pieces again go through the polishing process. Now, beautiful designs are traced, drawn, or painted onto the pieces using a pencil. Typically, repetition patterns are drawn onto a piece of paper at which time they are transferred through tracing but at different angles. On the other hand, curricular lines are painted using the wheel.

For the decoration and painting of the Nicaraguan pottery, using the colored oxides, the designed are painted on with paintbrushes made from recycled plastic shell belonging to a ballpoint pin and the hair of children who had haircuts. This process takes anywhere from one to four hours, which depends on the level of detail. Once all the color is painted on, the pottery pieces are smoothed out and polished. Again, they are dried (not in plastic), which takes up to six days.

The next step of creating Nicaraguan pottery is to outline the designs with a sharp instrument. This particular technique must be done very carefully so just the top layers of the clay are removed, allowing the rough surface of the style to remain. The tool uses is generally from broken bicycle spokes or a broken umbrella and then sharpened to a find point.

Firing is the next step that has changed somewhat over the years. Originally, kilns were shared and precious but today, you find many of the Nicaraguan artisans with their own. Each kiln is made from clay bricks, along with other necessary materials needed for making a burning oven. Some of the potters who are just starting out in the pottery business will experiment with the process but in most cases, the firing would start with two hours of heat.

From there, the heat is gradually increased over a three-hour period. Then, the heat is turned up high, burning the clay pieces for about four hours. Finally, once the kiln has cooled (usually the next day), the pottery is removed and with a soft cloth, shined. To bring out the shine to its fullest, natural shoe polish is used. The result is amazing piece of art that is a one-of-a-kind and completely, handcrafted.

Serapes

Serapes are commonly known as a type of Mexican shawl or blanket. This traditional item began as a masculine garment that reflected the technological and socioeconomic aspect of its production, distribution, and use, as well as the weaver's personal experience. The designs vary tremendously, some that are simplistic and others quite elaborate.

The Mexican serape has a long and interesting history associated with the production of wool and cotton, two materials commonly used for a number of textiles by the Mexican people. The serape is made in numerous areas of the country, which is why it actually has many different names. For instance, the serape is also called chamarro, jorongo, cobiga, cotton, frazada, tilme, and gaban.

The fascinating aspect of the Mexican serape is that it is a perfect blend of weaving traditions such as European and Mesoamerican. That means that with the European style of weaving, you would see cotton and dyes used to create wonderful designs whereas for the Mesoamerican style, wool is used and mounted on a look to create designs. In other words, one is dyed to make unique designs while the other is weaved.

The woven styles associated with the Mesoamerican way of weaving the serape has been used primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the time this style of serape was developed, the quality in factories and workshops was amazingly good, created most often in states such as Coahuila, Guanajuato, Michoacan, Puebla, Quetetaro, and Zacatecas.

Another interesting fact about the Mexican serape is that it was a common garment used by people of all lifestyles. For example, it was common to see horsemen, workers, town residents, and even lepers all preferring to wear the serape. Keep in mind that these serapes were the type woven.

Now, the type of serape that used cotton and dyes was considered a luxury garment whereby aristocrats and hacienda owners would wear them. These serapes were worn to high society parties, for walks along the avenues, or simply out for a leisurely stroll. These serapes were so gorgeous that famed artists and travelers from other countries would marvel at their distinct and colorful design.

The Mexican serape was even worn by insurgents fighting in the War of Independence along with patriots in wars where the French and Americans fought. This means that the serape was a garment of choice whether a conservative or liberal. In fact, the Mexican serape was actually used in refuge camps to keep people warm and for clothing, as a shroud for loved ones killed in battle, and the Revolutionary's flag. To this day, in the country of Mexico, this one item as well as the famous sombrero is what define the Mexican.

Serapes are also very versatile, being used as a shawl to dress up, a pillow on which to lay the head, as a coat for keeping warm, or even a bedcover. Even horsemen working the cold mountains and hot deserts use the serape as protection against the sun, rain, and snow. Remember, depending on the technique use for weaving, the serape can be a very sophisticated and elegant garment, a blanket on the back of a horse, or a blanket for a baby's crib.

Although you can still find people in Mexico that make serapes by hand, whether with dye or the weaving process, because factories have made it possible for mass production, the popularity of the serape is increasing dramatically. Today, we see incredible colors and designs that were not available years ago. Typically, these more colorful serapes come from places like Contla, Chiauhtempan, and Tlaxcala.

Many of the designs you see used in serapes come from landscapes or photographs seen by the weavers of serapes that are made in Contla, Guadalupe, San Bernandino, Tlascala, Tlaxiaco, Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, and Zacatecas. The serapes made in Oaxaca and Santa Ana del Valle are most often made with natural colored fibers with the designs being replicates of paintings created by well-known artists.

The serapes woven will commonly have two woven sections that are then sewn together although there are some looms capable of creating one, large serape. Serapes made out of the finest wool usually come from the Cora and Huichol Indians. Then, the serapes made with wool and chichicazatle, which is a vegetable fiber that produces a green color and has a tick texture usually comes from Oaxaca, San Pedro Mixtepec, Santa Catalina Zhanaguia, and San Juan Guivine.

Another fascinating fact about serapes is that in 1835 during the Texan War, soldiers would wear this garment over their uniforms that were very different from what the commanders wore. This particular war limited the number of serapes that could be made because of the high demand of the soldiers. When done wearing them for fighting, the soldiers would take the serape and give it to their girlfriends or wives, other family members, or simply use it as adornment for their home.

Without doubt, the Mexican serape is one garment that has a rich and diverse history. Today, serapes are just as popular, often used for garments, throws on the back of a couch, or an extra blanket on the bed to keep the chilly weather at bay. You can purchase serapes in Mexico and many South American's country or you can find them online. With the connection to other countries through the internet, many weavers are taking advantage of the opportunity by selling beautiful serape creations online.

CHULUCANA POTTERY FROM PERU

Throughout Peru, you will find several types of pottery, one being Chulucana. Using ancient, pre-Hispanic techniques by various cultures, the styles used are known as Colombian and negative painting, which is done by limiting oxygen flow in the furnace. These techniques are commonly used for making Chulucana pottery, which comes directly from Piura in the northern jungles. The natives of the Arabelas community create these pieces by hand, which are beautiful.

In addition to these two methods, another option is used in Simbila, Cajamarca, and Mollepampa. In this case, the Chulucana pottery shapes are made by hand with clay that has been beaten with a spatula. The pieces of pottery made are also made for both utilitarian and decorative purposes. In fact, the pieces made in Chulucanas has 250 artisans registered, making this pottery one of the finest in all of South America.

The motifs have become very popular. Made with rich, black color, the pottery is then glazed. You will often see portrayals of local people to include street vendors, musicians, dancers, and so on. Then, Chulucana pottery also depicts animals. Because of the beautiful design and durability of this pottery, it is widely traded in various markets of Arequipa, Juliaca, and Cusco.

One of the aspects of Peru that inspired the long tradition of pottery making is the climate. Although pottery making has been around for centuries, it has become increasingly popular in the last three decades. Everyone has his or her own favorite pottery design but some of the favorites include elders, old sages, mothers, lovers, laborers, and goddesses. Because of such diversity, Chulucana pottery has something for everyone.

The clay used for Chulucana pottery is mined from Mount Vicus. The clay is then mixed with water coming from melted snow and desert sand. Then the pieces of pottery are hand formed with the color and patterns being created with natural materials that are mixed with soil and applied to the surface of the pottery piece. To create the black color on the pieces, smoke from burning mango leaves and wood is used. The only areas not touched are those covered with the glazing mixture.

Once the Chulucana has been fired, it is polished by rubbing it with a fine stone. The polishing completes the pottery making process, which gives each piece a beautiful, semi-gloss finish. To finish off the pottery, it is signed by the artist. As you can imagine, Chulucana pottery is delicate so you will find small variations or imperfections that only lead to the intrigue.

Ayacucho Tapestry of Peru

Like all Peruvian tapestry, Ayacucho is named after the region in which it is made. This tapestry was originally created in Santa Ana, which is a smaller town just outside Ayacucho. Interestingly, Ayacucho tapestry comes in three distinct grades. First, you have the street quality, which is made from virgin wool and natural dyes. Second, there is the special quality Ayacucho tapestry, made from pre-washed wool and aniline dyes. Third, you have signed, which is woven and sighed by the master makers.

Typically, Ayacucho tapestry from Peru is created in geometric designs of nature, often taken from Codices such as ancient Aztecs, Mayans, or Incas, as well as temple carvings. In the town of Ayacucho, alpacas and sheep are raised specifically so the wool can be used to make this type of tapestry. Most often, the imagery seen in the tapestry has influence of the Incas along with Nazca people from earlier times.

You will also find tapestries depicting things such as flowers, birds, butterflies, and many other Andean cultural aspects. All of the sheep wool is handspun, and then naturally dyed with native vegetable, mineral, and animal dye. Unfortunately, with the growing gang violence and lack of proper food, women will work 15, 16, and 17 hours a day to create Ayacucho tapestries. Although the work is hard, they are courageous, creating true masterpieces.

Another common theme scene in Ayacucho tapestries is ancestral things and mythological creatures. Many times, you will find tapestries such as this made from a blend of 70% alpaca and 30% wool, which means durability, strength, and a beautiful piece to last for years. As you can imagine, this type of weaving over long hours provides the women and men with significant income. However, with violence looming, we see many people being forced from the weaving industry.

Regardless, for the Ayacucho tapestries that survive, they are amazingly beautiful and well made. With such vibrant colors and designs, the Ayacucho tapestry is in wide demand. The skill learned from ancestors continues being used today, creating some of the most amazing tapestries in all of South America.

Arpilleras Tapestries

When you hear "Arpilleras" tapestry, you need to understand that tapestries from Peru are named after the region in which they were produced. The name "Arpilleras" is actually from a Chilean tradition whereby rags were used to create small dolls. These dolls were then sewn together and sometimes, embroidered on large pieces of cloth. This interesting technique originated in Peru sometime around 1980. From there, it was adopted by shantytown inhabitants in the area around Lima.

Chilean women would put their sewing needles, thread, and rags to work, often used to spread the word about the missing, murdered, or tortured loved ones under the dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet. Today, there is a gallery at the Case Western Reserve University called the Mather Gallery where you can still see some of these amazing pieces. In fact, the exhibit has some 40 Arpilleras tapestries on display from private collections of Chilean women.

All Arpilleras tapestries are handcrafted. The rags used are usually collected by women or even donated by Chilean women. The colors and hues are often bright and bold, showing the woman's optimism and strength. The designs also include blacked-out figures of missing family members, as mentioned, as well as soldiers. In addition, the women's faces in the designs have strong lines yet simple stitches.

Typically, you will see a common denominator in the designs of Arpilleras tapestry such as images, names, and photographs. For example, it would be common to see a tapestry piece with the words, "Where are they" stitched on. Sadly, more than 10,000 people disappeared while Pinochet was in leadership. Women during this time were required to take refuge in the Vicariate of Solidarity that was organized by the Catholic church of Rome. The basements were dark and the rooms used for secret meetings of the sisters, mothers, daughters, and wives of the lost or murdered.

These sewn together cotton or wool cloth are designed with such amazing detail that you cannot help but feel impressed. The wall hanging tapestries are beautiful but all tell a unique and often sad story. The patchwork, tapestry, and embroidery style literally walks you through scenes of daily life associated with the Chilean woman, giving you much respect for her hardships.