As we transition into Autumn and await the exciting arrival, of our luxuriously crafted homeware collection (launching in October), in collaboration with UNDP Mexico and Routes Interiors, we wanted to share a little more about the way of life in the region of Chiapas, Mexico and its history rooted in textiles.
A day in the life
Women’s lives are shaped by a rich blend of tradition, culture and ancient rituals.
Women get up as the sun rises over the hills, typically beginning their day with a traditional ritual which often incorporates elements of Mayan spirituality. Men go out to work in the fields all day cultivating crops like maize, beans, and coffee. Women are left at home to perform household chores, which include preparing meals, cleaning, and taking care of children and the elderly.
In between these chores, the women come together to weave and this is where the magic happens!
Weaving usually takes part in a communal setting, fostering a sense of community and solidarity among Mayan women, allowing them to share their skills, stories, and experiences. Weaving is deeply embedded in Mayan culture, with a rich history dating back thousands of years. It is considered an art form that connects Mayan people to their ancestors and heritage. Many Mayan women learn to weave from their mothers and grandmothers, passing down traditional techniques and designs.
The women usually weave for an hour here or there rather than in one continuous stretch. This means it works around their other household responsibilities.
In the evenings, the whole family comes together to share stories and spend quality time with their loved ones. Traditional Mayan food, like tamales and pozol (a corn-based drink), is a common part of their diet.
The Conscious Choice
Many Mayan women use traditional and sustainable practices. This aligns with their cultural values of living in harmony with nature and respecting the environment.
Our entire range will be woven on the backstrap loom, a zero waste weaving technique where the only machines used are the bare hands of the indigenous women, reducing our carbon footprint further. This authentic homeware collection champions a slow living approach with carefully woven products made to last a lifetime.
The collection will be available to buy at the end of October through www.routesinteriors.com
