The creation of each piece is a labor of love, rooted in the time-honored traditions of skilled artisans. It begins with the careful sourcing of raw cotton, which is then transformed into beautiful cloth through a meticulous, hands-on process. First, the raw cotton is cleaned and transformed into yarn. Once prepared, the cotton can be hand-dyed using natural, plant-based pigments. The dyeing process is done slowly and thoughtfully, allowing the fibers to absorb the pigments evenly, creating a depth of color that can only be achieved through traditional, non-industrial methods.
After the cotton is dyed, it is woven on a pedal loom, an ancient technique that requires skill, patience, and precision. This loom work is entirely manual, with each thread carefully guided by the artisan’s hands. No industrial fabrics are involved—each piece of cloth is crafted from the ground up, honoring the slow fashion philosophy that values craftsmanship and sustainability. The result is a fabric that is entirely unique, with subtle variations that reflect the personal touch of the weaver and the natural flow of the loom. Every inch of the fabric embodies the artisan's commitment to creating something truly special, free from the mass production that dominates the modern textile industry.
Once the fabric is woven, the true artistry emerges in the next stage, where each piece is meticulously hand-embroidered with traditional iconography. These intricate designs, crafted stitch by stitch, tell stories of cultural heritage and spiritual connection, bringing to life symbols that have been cherished by communities for generations. The embroidery not only adds beauty but also carries profound meaning, allowing the garment to become a wearable narrative of Purépecha history.
This entire process, from sourcing the cotton to completing the embroidery, takes approximately a month of dedicated work, during which many skilled hands contribute their expertise. Each piece is made with love, care, and a deep sense of pride. When you wear it, you’re not just wearing a garment—you’re embracing the essence of the artisans who devoted themselves to its creation.
To honor the connection between maker and wearer, each garment includes a tag with the name of the artisan whose work you are supporting. Wearing this piece allows you to carry with you the stories, skills, and traditions of a community, encouraging you to wear it with great pride—knowing that you are helping to preserve their craft and culture.
