It was early 2016 and I’d just returned from taking a group of textile travelers to Tenancingo de Degollado, Estado de Mexico, to study the ikat rebozos of the region. Textile maven and friend Sheri Brautigam was in Oaxaca putting the final content and photos together for her upcoming book, Textile Fiestas of Mexico.
When Sheri is in Oaxaca (her home is Santa Fe, NM), we like to hang out together.
ONE Space Open: Ikat Textile Study Tour to Tenancingo, Feb. 2-10, 2017
I took her with me and introduced her to the Feria del Carrizo (river reed basket fair) in San Juan Guelavia, Oaxaca, just across the road from where I live in Teotitlan del Valle. She loved it so much, she decided to include it in her book! At the end of January each year, it’s a special event that includes hand-woven river reed baskets, lampshades, fish traps, music and amazing food.
Tenancingo weaver Jesus Zarate with his amazing ikat butterfly rebozo
Sheri’s deadline was fast approaching. She wasn’t sure she could get back to Tenancingo to interview and photograph people, something I had well-documented. I suggested that perhaps I could produce that chapter for her.
Smokey and steamy dye pot, the alchemy of natural dyes
I also suggested that she include a chapter on the natural dye wool textiles of Teotitlan del Valle, focusing on the process of using indigo, cochineal and other plants and minerals.
Hands in the cochineal dye bath
Sheri sent the suggestion to Karen Brock at Thrums Books, the co-publisher, and she agreed.
If you are traveling to Mexico for any reason, this is the book you want in hand to explore the rich textile culture. It includes how to get to the textile regions, what to look for, where to shop for the best, where to stay and eat.
Of course, if you want a personal, immediate experience, come with me!
Cochineal from acid (lime juice) dye bath — brilliant color. All natural!
Let me know how you like it if you do get a copy. We are interested in your feedback for the next edition!
Hi Norma – had Amazon download Sheri’s book to my kindle forgetting
the photos would not be in color, so I just ordered the book so I can
enjoy the photos of the textiles.
I see where we got a few more enrollees for our trip to Tenancingo.
Thanks, Susanne
I am so very fortunate….
I have the book
I have been to Tenancingo with Norma
AND….I will be going to Chiapas with both Norma and Sheri!!
Susie
Yay, Susie. So happy for our next adventure together!
THANKS Norma – This is definitely a travel guide you will want to have with you when you travel to Mexico! It’s a preview of all the wonderful textiles and cultural events….fiestas, ferias and markets that are waiting for you!
Yes, and you’ll be lucky to go with Norma if your timing is right!
“Textile Fiestas of Mexico” is available on AMAZON and in my Etsy shop:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/livingtextiles
It’s all about supporting the traditional artisans and enjoying beautiful Mexico.
Sheri is passionate about supporting Mexico’s talented artisans. You can feel that from her book. Thanks, Sheri.