The typical crafts of Veracruz they cover simple and complex elements. Craftsmen make simple objects based on shells, coconuts and palm leaves; and they also produce more elaborate ones such as blown glass, pottery and musical instruments.
It is common to find in each region of the state groups of local inhabitants performing different types of crafts, depending on their needs.
For example, in the wetter regions it is typical to find rubber craftsmen who make waterproof clothing.
Artisan products have become one of the greatest attractions of Veracruz, and can be found in almost all markets and tourist areas of the state.
Depending on the type of craft most common in each region, you can find several different areas in the municipality.
The most important cities in terms of crafts are the city of Veracruz, Zozocolco, Naolinco and Tantoyuca.
The materials used are very diverse. You can find small craftsmen who use everyday objects, and experts who use more complex materials such as leather or precious metals.
The 5 most important crafts of Veracruz
1- Saddlery
Working with leather or saddlery is one of the most widespread crafts in the state of Veracruz.
It is especially prevalent in the central zone, especially in the municipalities of Tantoyuca, Xalapa, Perote, Naolínco, Fortín, Nogales, Veracruz, Coscomatepec and Córdoba.
Some of the most common objects made of leather are purses, leather bags, shoes and belts. Other more exotic ones also stand out, such as saddles or weapons cases.
Master saddlers also often use techniques such as pyrography (burning the leather to make decorative drawings), or embroidery with hemp thread.
2- Jewelry
Another of Veracruz's most important crafts is jewelry. In their different regions the inhabitants use a lot of different materials to create jewelry and ornaments.
Some of the most used are seashells, hawksbills and corals, although there are also more complex gems like those made with gold and silver.
For example, highlight the earrings, rings and necklaces used in traditional ceremonies in the region.
3- Sewing
The manufacture of clothing in an artisanal way still continues to be an important source of work in the Veracruz region.
There is a wide variety of products of this type: from traditional clothes for different parties and dances, to work uniforms designed to withstand very harsh conditions.
The materials used in the manufacture of clothes are very diverse. The garments made of wool, rubber, stamens and cotton stand out, as well as the famous jarocha suits used in traditional dances.
4- Lutería
Due to the importance of music in the state of Veracruz, the lutería or factory of musical instruments is also an activity with a great tradition in the area.
In this region, the manufacture of simple instruments such as drums or flutes is common. However, there are also great craftsmen who are experts in creating guitars, violins and other more complex instruments.
5- Ornamentation
The most widespread practice among the artisans of the state of Veracruz is the manufacture of simple objects with materials from day to day.
Decorative figurines, baskets, vases and other ornaments are usually found in any market in Veracruz.
The most used materials in this type of craft are hemp, coffee stalk, wicker, wood, wax and bamboo.
References
- "Customs and traditions of Veracruz"in: Where to Travel. Retrieved on November 15, 2017, from Where to Travel: dondeviajar.republica.com
- "Artesanías de Veracruz"in: Destinations Mexico. Retrieved on November 15, 2017, from Destinations Mexico: programadestinosmexico.com
- "Handicrafts and gastronomy of the State of Veracruz"in: Club Planeta. Retrieved on November 15, 2017, from Club Planeta: elclima.com.mx
- "Handcrafts Veracruzanas"in: Tips of Veracruz. Retrieved on November 15, 2017, from Tips de Veracruz: tipsdeveracruz.com.mx
- "Meet the best crafts of Veracruz"in: Travel Report. Retrieved on November 15, 2017, from Travel Report: travelreport.mx