Pepenado Backstrap Weaving Workshop

with master weaver

Xochitl Martínez

Mexico City

November 6 - 12, 2026

About

Immerse yourself in the traditional art of pepenado backstrap weaving in the heart of Mexico City. This workshop offers an in-depth introduction to the intricate process of creating woven patterns directly on the loom through hand-picked warp techniques rooted in Indigenous textile traditions.

Participants will engage in daily 3-hour hands-on weaving sessions using the backstrap loom, learning foundational techniques, pattern development, warp preparation, and the rhythmic process of weaving by hand. The workshop is designed for both beginners and those wishing to deepen their textile practice in an immersive and supportive environment.

In addition to studio sessions, the course includes guided visits to textile museums, artisan spaces, and cultural sites throughout Mexico City, offering participants the opportunity to study historical and contemporary textile traditions firsthand. These excursions will provide cultural context and inspiration while connecting weaving practices to the rich textile heritage of Mexico.

Meet the Instructor

Master weaver

Xochitl MartÍnez

Originally from the Ayuujk Community of Santa Maria Tlahuitolpec, Mixe, Oaxaca, Xochitl currently resides in Mexico City.

Her career is distinguished by her commitment to community development and cultural preservation. She has collaborated with Cull Otli Regional fund promoting workshops for artisans. She is a member of the Xico kana Communications A.C. participating in projects to safeguard languages and art.

In 2012, she founded the Zapaz Telar collective to preserve backstrap weaving among migrant women, innovating in handcrafted footwear.

Since 2019, she has taught backstrap loom workshops im Mexico City to promote this ancestral technique and the Ayuujk worldview.

Our Team

Carmen is a textile artist who Grew up in El Salvador before moving to Canada at a young age. In Canada, Carmen was a Recreational therapist for 20 years before she and her husband moved to Mexico. When not strapped up to her loom, Carmen is an English teacher. For this workshop, Carmen will be both a translator and teacher assistant. 
Mark is a Canadian artist/teacher  living and working in Mexico City. For this workshop, Mark will facilitate t by helping participants navigate the city, transportation, and museums. 

Mark VÁzquez-Mackay

Carmen VÁzquez-Mackay

Cost

$1,925 shared accommodation

$2,175 private accommodation

50% deposit is required to reserve your spot. deposit is 100% refundable before October 1st, 2026.

Final payment is due October 1st, 2026

Spaces are limited to only 8 participants.

Included

  • Hotel stay

  • Studio use

  • Instruction

  • Airport transportation

  • Museum entrance fees

  • Tour guides

  • Backstrap loom

  • Yarn

not included

  • Airfare

  • Food

  • Travel insurance