PEDAL loom weavers & NATURAL DYERS
Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, Mexico
Working in alignment with nature and the local community
One of the most authentic relationships we formed. Angharad was introduced to Anais through a friend from dance class in Oaxaca. Anais is well known amongst the community in Teotitlan del Valle, a dusty village situated 18 miles outside of Oaxaca.
Anais is one of the most inspiring people we have met on our journey, building up her collective over the last four years to a total of 20 women. Although men typically weave wool rugs and cushions in this region, Anais is considered a master of her trade and has trained her family, single mothers and otherwise unemployed women to create and earn a stable income providing economic stability. Women tend to work from home so that they can take care of their children and carry out household tasks. However, when we visited Anais’ colourful home she was co-living with others and their children, whilst the women were weaving the children were playing in the courtyard, dancing to the sound of the looms.
Angharad was greeted by cheerful women proud of their craft, a stunning array of naturally dyed yarns hanging out to dry in the midday sun and women washing, combing and spinning yarns using traditional techniques which have been kept alive for centuries here.