Deschutes Public Library

Backstrap Weaving In Mexico & Guatemala

videorecording

Backstrap Weaving In Mexico & Guatemala

921955929

Originally produced by Ends of the Earth in 2006

57

Intended to provide a complete and permanent record of surviving traditions and skills in textiles and crafts, the Ends of the Earth unique series show the processes in full, in detail and with all the clarity and colour made possible by modern video cameras. In many ways they are better than being there - pausing and replaying gives the possibility of checking again where the quickness of the hands has eluded or deceived the eye. Nowhere are the skills of backstrap weaving so widely practised as in Guatemala and Mexico. Everywhere weavers can be seen sitting down to weave, under a tree, in front of houses, inside open doorways. Complex and colourful designs reflecting thousands of years of tradition and skill are still produced from a few sticks and balls of yarn. This film unravels the secrets of backstrap weaving and shows how the ancient Amerindian cultures survive through it. Filmed in Mexico and Guatemala. Contents: The backstrap loom ,warping up a backstrap loom for a 4 selvedge weaving and different weaving techniques, such as warp pick up and brocade, used to produce an amazing range of multicoloured huipils and cloths

live action