TLAPEHUALA, GUERRERO
Tlapehuala, Guerrero, is known as the land of three charms: hats, music, and bread. We collaborate with artisans specializing in the creation of palm hats. This region is home to workshops where age-old skills are combined with original designs.
The hat-making process begins with the harvesting of palm leaves in Chilapa and other areas of the Sierra, where older women weave the braids that give the hat its structure. The artisans then transform these braids into unique hats through processes such as ironing, applying glue, flattening, and sealing. Each hat can take weeks to complete, depending on weather conditions and the complexity of the design.
“From childhood, we learn to peel the braid, weave the trim, and decorate. It is our life, our history.”
Many of the artisans in Tlapehuala learned their craft as children, guided by grandparents or older relatives.
Valeria, for example, remembers how her grandmother taught her to braid hair when she was 8 years old, a skill she has perfected throughout her life. Others, like Armando, see their craftwork as an opportunity to build a better future for their families.The palm hat is a symbol of identity in Tlapehuala. It represents a tradition that connects generations and fosters the local economy. This tradition faces a lack of interest from younger generations, and haggling devalues the handcrafted work. Our commitment is to ensure that this art endures and that the artisans receive the recognition and support they deserve. For us, each piece tells a story, from the hands that weave the palm to those that shape it and add the final touches.
"Every detail counts. It's not just an object; it's the patience and care we give it."
México
Estados Unidos