In celebration of Earth, we have created an eco-friendly capsule collection to promote the management, sustainable use and long-term preservation of Colombian native natural resources.
“Our work with artisans is focused not only on the aesthetics of each piece but also on sourcing sustainable techniques.”
-YASMIN SABET, FOUNDER AND DESIGNER OF MOLA SASA
Sabet continues, “We wanted to promote through this very special capsule collection the work done in the Chimichagua region and pair it with other crafts that we are passionate about to complement each piece in a very special way. When I look for techniques my go to is usually the woman leader of each artisanal coop. This is the best way to reach our time and quality goals but especially to make sure resources reach families in the right way.”
The three pieces capsule features its coveted Chimichagua tote and two brand new product categories; a pair of bold statement earrings and a delicate wrap belt. Offered in four color combinations that mix black, beige, terracotta and orange natural dyes, all the styles are handcrafted with natural fibers by Colombian artisans and use techniques from 3 different regions.
The body of the Chimichagua totes are handwoven by women of the Cesar region of Colombia, in the community of Chimichagua, with the native “Estera” palm leaves. Historically, the use of “Palma de Estera” constituted a prosperous home industry for families, but today, their craft is being threatened by agriculture, cattle raising and urban expansion. Explore more.
The handles of the totes and the body of the belts and earrings are handwoven in the Zenu Reserve in Tuchin Cordoba with “caña flecha”. This is a technique developed for the “sombrero volteado” or “turnedover” hat used in the coffee plantations. Women weave while men commercialize finished products.
The hoops of earrings and the buckles of the belts are handwoven by women of the Kankuama people of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and are made fiber extracted from a type of native agave plant called “Maguey."
All three natural resources constitute the most important economic income for these communities and range from the extraction of fibers to their braiding and sewing; scraping drying in the sun and creating dyes from plants and seeds.
“We live from this. Many women are head of households and do not have a husband to divide expenses. In my case, even though I am older I still work because with my earnings I can help my grandchildren even if it´s buying a pencil for school. Anything makes the difference here so every time a “compañera” asks me for work I always try to help them as I can…” Maria Concepcion, Leader of the Cooperative.
#PreserveChimichagua #PreserveColombia
