Types of artisanal fabrics in Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is a dry and windy island, where for centuries everything that the land provided was utilized. From that necessity, a craft based on natural fibers was born, which is still alive today thanks to the island's artisans. The most typical fabric is the palm weaving, and alongside it stand out the wool weaving and the lace-making.

Palm weaving

With the leaves of the Canarian palm, which are cut, sun-dried, and braided by hand, baskets, mats, hats, and brooms for daily work in the field and at home were made. It is the most representative natural fiber craft of the island, and it is still taught in municipal workshops, like those in Betancuria. Artisans also work with other fibers, such as bulrush or cane.

Wool weaving

Sheep wool was washed, carded, and hand-spun to weave blankets, saddle bags, and other sturdy pieces, designed for everyday use and for working with livestock.

Lace-making

Lace-making is an embroidery technique on cotton or linen fabric: threads are pulled from the fabric and lace patterns are formed with a needle. This technique is used to adorn tablecloths, handkerchiefs, and garments, and in Fuerteventura, it has a long tradition, especially in the northern part of the island, in the village of Lajares.

Where to find Majorera craftsmanship

The main event is the Fuerteventura Insular Craft Fair, which is held every year in Antigua, usually in spring, featuring over a hundred artisans. You can also find pieces at the island's markets and in the artisan shops of villages like Betancuria or Lajares. When you shop, look for handmade pieces by local artisans.

And to see the island live, check out our webcams of Fuerteventura.