Jesús, what would you say to someone who wants to take up this craft?
This craft requires passion, effort and can also be painful. I would suggest not giving up, and being aware that the first few years will be tough and without financial reward. However, if you carry on, your efforts will be acknowledged and you will acquire strength to face everything.
Pedro, can you describe the ubedí rug, one of your specialisms?
This is an item with a great tradition. When we opened our workshop in 2013 with the aim of keeping the esparto craft alive, one of the first pieces we made was a rug made of pita fibre and sisal. This kind of rug dates back to the 11th century and is weaved with filigree and arabesque motifs.
© Ubedíes Artesanía
What other products do you make?
Jesús: Besides the rugs and mats, we make baskets, wide brimmed hats (pamelas), jewellery, and espadrilles; we also collaborate with fashion designers. I like to be eclectic in what I do, to experiment and innovate, to mix materials and choose the fibre that best suits the product.
How do you balance innovation and tradition?
Pedro: One cannot exist without the other, and we are fascinated by both. Traditional craftsmanship needs to be promoted; at the same time we can't do that without innovation – eyeing new trends in design and manufacturing, focusing on distribution and on communicating our story and craft.