In the last two weeks, I stumbled across three amazing textile makers/shops in Oaxaca. I want to share these with you.
- Hilos Flojos. This is located on the south side of the Zocalo near the Merced Market, off Murguia on a one-block street called Antonio Gay. Knitters can find amazing naturally dyed ikat cotton yarn. Embroiderers can find a rainbow of threads all colored with natural dyes — every hue and shade imaginable. They also make and sell garments dyed with botanicals that are gorgeous, 100% cotton, and very comfortable. Here is the address: Antonio Gay 3-A, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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2. Next Up is Kiti Kuati, tucked away in a tiny storefront on Humboldt 109, behind the Botanical Gardens and around the corner from Casa del Barro. They have been here a while, but I’m not sure many know about it. The clothing is all cotton and linen, exquisitely sewn and embroidered. Selection ranges from women’s and men’s wear, including tops, shirts, and dresses. In addition, they have a fine collection of handmade, high-fire pottery. The clothing is from the village of Tacuati, Santa Maria Zacatepec in Sierra Azul of Oaxaca, near Pinotepa de Don Luis in the mountains high above the Pacific Coast.
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3. Finally, the most amazing discovery, thanks to friend Nancy Craft who loves and dyes with all things indigo, and who we are working with to create our Japan tour in October 2025. Nancy lived in Japan and speaks the language. She hunts for indigo and found Samantha Martinez, Oaxaca indigo shibori designer who started the brand Koto. Samantha works here in Oaxaca in the San Francisco neighborhood north of the Guelaguetza Stadium (you will need wheels to get there). She personally makes the dye baths, working primarily in indigo, cochineal, and wild marigold, stitches the shibori designs on linen, cotton, and silk, and then sews the finished cloth into stunning clothing. Our friend Kris Moore came with us. It was a treat to meet her, talk about textiles, and even make a purchase! Koto is open by appointment only. Please call her to visit. You will be amazed to see what she does. Contact: Calle San Francisco 205 68030, Planta alta, 68030 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico Phone: +52 951 465 3796
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