By Jose Alfredo Gutierrez
Ignacia Salinas and her husband, Martín Arredondo, work as a team. They produce and sell handmade wool rugs, bedspreads, and cushions. Their mastery of this trade, gained after 40 years of experience, is evident in the variety and beauty of their designs. Martín learned to work with wool in the La Madeja workshop, which was once located on Estrellita Street in the Guadalupe neighborhood.
La Colcha Artesanías, located at Lucas Balderas local 21, has eight looms for those who wish to learn the secrets of this art form. Here, rugs of any length up to 3.40 meters wide can be made to suit any client’s desires. Although they have orders from all over Mexico and the United States, labor is scarce. Because of this, Ignacia and Martín are ready to receive a new generation of workers into their workshop—to teach them how to work in this exciting trade.
Here is a great opportunity for young people. The market for this type of product is quite extensive, and there are very few people dedicated to this business. The world of fashion is also aware of the potential offered by these looms for other creations like overcoats, ponchos, and backpacks.
This San Miguel tradition is at risk of being lost to the next generation. It is everyone’s responsibility that one of the charms of this World Heritage city continues for many more years.
