During the second week we switched to felt-making, starting with ‘animalito skin’ felts using undyed local white and brown fleeces. These, the mamas stitched into pantuflas (baby slippers). Our second project was coronas (crowns) for the preschool. With this project, the mamas started to learn how to layer felts for pattern, design, and different purposes. Next, having developed their skills, […]
Guest Blogger Carla Costuros – 40 Years Later . . . Transforming Beauty into Beauty • Part II
Natural dyeing continues in a few pueblos in Guatemala on cotton fibres, but my research did not turn up any reference on the current use of natural dyes with wool. We did find a local fellow, Pedro Gieron, who has recently taken up natural dyeing (on cotton) and as part of our workshop, we had the opportunity […]
Guest Blogger Carla Costuros – 40 Years Later . . . Transforming Beauty into Beauty • Part I
In the early 70’s I discovered weaving and natural dyeing. When the opportunity arose to study the textiles of Guatemala, I eagerly embarked on what was the beginning of a life journey. The weaving in Guatemala is unique and complex. In the mornings we studied with the accomplished weavers from San Antonio Aguas Calientes, and […]