Reviving the Legacy of Saltillo Sarape Weaving

From the heart of Mexico, master weavers Juan Rubén Tamayo Sánchez and Francisco Javier Reyes Luna are preserving and transforming the centuries-old tradition of the Saltillo Sarape. Both of these Escuela del Sarape La Favorita professors have dedicated their lives to safeguarding this cultural treasure while inspiring the next generation of artisans. Together, they have trained 51 master weavers, ensuring this iconic art form of Saltillo continues flourishing. Their work has drawn recognition on an extraordinary scale—even Mexico's new President, Claudia Sheinbaum, recently visited their workshop to witness their stunning folk art firsthand.

Francisco Javier Reyes Luna, a native of Saltillo, grew up in a family of weavers. He learned art as a young boy, mainly through play and hands-on guidance from the region's finest master weavers and his uncles, Gerónimo and Guillermo. His deep respect for the sarape’s historical and cultural significance drives his work. As a professor, Francisco instills pride in his students for carrying forward an art form integral to Mexican identity. Their collaborative efforts have revived lost weaving techniques and innovated new methods, ensuring the Saltillo sarape continues to evolve.

Their collaborative efforts have revived lost weaving techniques and innovated new methods, ensuring the Saltillo sarape continues to evolve. Signature designs include traditional Saltillo patterns with decreasing color gradients, intricate floral motifs like the flor de la manita, and the iconic diamond shapes. Together, Rubén and Francisco are breathing new life into an ancient tradition, balancing preservation with innovation, ushering the beauty of the Saltillo sarape into a new age, and ensuring these techniques are not lost again.