The Unrivaled New Mexico Store That's Been Around For Decades
By Juliet White
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Published July 04, 2017
Our lives are constantly being revolutionized by technology at an ever-increasing rate. However, there are spots in New Mexico where time stands still; there’s no need to change because it’s impossible to improve upon what’s already there. Visiting these places provides a refreshing break from the pace of our lives and a reminder of the value of artisan goods, made with skill and deliberation.
Located in the small Northern New Mexican town of Chimayo, Ortega’s Weaving Shop has been around in one incarnation or another for over a century.
Nicacio and Virginia Ortega originally opened it as a general store, at the start of the 20th century,
Even during those early days, there was a loom in residence and the store sold the artisan products that Nicacio Ortega wove, such as blankets.
The family business expanded over the decades, drawing in younger family members. A total of eight generations have been involved with the shop, which is now devoted entirely to woven goods, rather than serving as a general store.
You might assume that products are limited to blankets. But Ortega’s produces rugs, coats, vests, purses, pillows… The list goes on.
Take a moment to appreciate the quality of these handcrafted items.
As you explore the store, you can still walk between the giant wooden looms.
You can often see the weavers at work. It doesn’t take much imagination to envision this same scene taking place fifty or even one hundred years ago.
Here
is a map to the store.
Ortega’s Weaving Shop is one of New Mexico’s many cultural treasures and you should definitely add it to your list of places to visit.
Our state actually has several fiber arts trails. Learn more about them here .
While you’re in Chimayo, be sure to visit El Santuario de Chimayo , a beautiful little church with a large reputation.
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