AOW JOURNAL

From interviews with boutique brand owners to hidden treasures from across the world… explore AOW’s Journal for industry insight and inspiration.

Are you a retailer or brand wanting to be interviewed by AOW, or perhaps know of a like-minded brand for us to explore? Let us know!

Naturally Dyed Rugs, Made in Mexico

This week I invite you to explore naturally dyed rugs, crafted in Teotitlan. They’re designed with incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail by my partner in France. These beauties can go in any home thanks to their subtle but chic color palette.

In addition to being made using natural dyes, they are crafted on looms that date back centuries. Rooted in tradition, they pay respect to the complex motifs of the Zapotecs, coming from the artists’ memories to represent symbols and stories of the region. Rugs are made by artists who have descended from a long line of weavers. Most artists are fully involved in the process from the dying and preparing of the yarn to the weaving itself. Often the whole family participates.

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Natural Fiber Rugs from Colombia

This week, I’m delighted to dive into the craft behind fique rugs and to showcase the work of one of my Colombian partners who makes them. When I first traveled to Colombia many years ago, these are one of the products that really stood out. I’m excited to share for those of you looking for a new, chic line of rugs. You might be wondering, what is fique? It’s a fleshy tropical succulent plant native to Colombia – you’ll often see it planted next to other crops as many Colombian families plant it to sell to their local artisan markets. The fiber takes three years to grow.

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