The typical crafts of Coahuila are some of the most representative of Mexico, one of its most emblematic elements being the serape.
Apart from the serape, the typical crafts of this region include basketry, pottery, clothing and food crafts.
In Saltillo, the state capital, is the Casa del Artesano, an old acoustic shell where local artists and artisans can display their work. Jewelry, sculptures, textiles and gastronomy are exhibited on this site.
You may also be interested in the traditions and customs of Coahuila.
The typical crafts of Coahuila and its elements
The traditional artisan pieces of Coahuila have been made for several centuries.
The knowledge for its preparation is usually passed from generation to generation and represents in a certain way a family tradition.
Serape
The serape is a garment generally used as a coat. It consists of a woven blanket with a hole in the middle to show the head.
Although it is originally from Tlaxcala, the originality and quality of Coahuila's designs have made the state the unofficial capital of the sarape.
It is recognized worldwide as a piece closely associated with Mexican culture and customs. It is common for them to carry patterns or symbols related to the area of their clothing.
The sarapes are made of cotton or wool in very bright colors and the average measurements of the pieces are 2 meters wide by one meter long.
Basketry
Despite not being among the most popular crafts in Mexico, within Coahuila it is relevant.
The making of baskets is an art in the state. The variation in materials, weaving techniques and the very shape of the basket make them unique and unrepeatable pieces.
Due to its usefulness, beauty and light weight when it comes to being transported, the baskets are very popular among tourists who visit Coahuila.
Basket weaving also includes the manufacture of carpets and bags woven with natural materials.
Pottery
The elaboration of small articles (especially kitchen ones) with fired clay and ceramics is common in many countries of Central and South America. Plates, glasses, cups, and bowls are some of the most frequently seen creations.
Pottery is in a time of decline. Currently, people prefer plastic parts for their strength and durability compared to the brittleness of terracotta and clay.
Textiles
Textiles and clothing are the most abundant crafts not only in Coahuila, but perhaps in all of Mexico.
Along with sarapes, fur suits, tablecloths, women's dresses, rugs, curtains, handkerchiefs, T-shirts, and handmade coats are extremely popular.
The most traditional manufacturing favors the use of cotton or wool dyed with natural products.
Foods
After textiles, gastronomy is the most popular handicraft in the area.
Although several of the most famous foods in Mexico tend to be strong meals characterized by intense flavors, in Coahuila you see mostly artisanal desserts such as cakes, sweets, jellies, jams and preserves.
References
- José Iturriaga (February 16, 2013). Popular Art in the Mexican Republic. Retrieved on November 3, 2017, from the Museum of Popular Art.
- Crafts of Coahuila (nd). Retrieved on November 3, 2017, from Destinations Mexico.
- Ana Ponce (November 22, 2015). The Sarape de Saltillo, distinctive of an entire country. Retrieved on November 3, 2017, from Milenio.
- Saltillo handicrafts (sf). Retrieved on November 3, 2017, from Saltillo.
- Crafts, Gastronomy and Traditions of Coahuila (March 2011). Retrieved on November 3, 2017, from Coahuila.
- Handicrafts. State of Coahuila (October 23, 2016). Retrieved on November 3, 2017, from Cibertareas.