Quick answer: Coro Cora's pieces come from two Colombian palm-weaving traditions. Iraca palm pieces, such as placemats and coasters, are woven in Usiacurí on the Caribbean coast over a wire frame. Toquilla palm pieces, such as napkin rings and hand fans, are woven by women artisans in Sandoná, in the mountains of Southern Colombia, from dyed threads cut from the palm leaves.
Every handwoven object carries two stories: the material and the hands that shape it. Here is a short guide to the two palm traditions behind our collection.
What is Iraca palm weaving?
Iraca palm weaving is the technique used by artisans in Usiacurí, a vibrant town on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It is a tradition passed down through generations. The process begins by shaping a wire frame, over which the artisans weave intricate patterns with Iraca palm. The result is a structured piece that holds its shape, like the Anemona Placemat or the Blossom Coaster.
What is Toquilla palm weaving?
Toquilla palm weaving is the craft of artisan communities in Sandoná, a small town tucked in the mountains of Southern Colombia. The process begins by obtaining threads from the leaves of the Toquilla palm. The threads are then dyed and interwoven to create intricate pieces that express the region's culture and identity. For decades, artisan communities there have preserved this art, and it is currently their main source of income. Our Toquilla pieces are made by women artisans, such as the Apple Napkin Ring and the Flat Calado Hand Fan.
How do the two traditions compare?
| Iraca palm | Toquilla palm | |
|---|---|---|
| Where | Usiacurí, Caribbean coast of Colombia | Sandoná, mountains of Southern Colombia |
| Technique | Weaving over a wire frame | Threads from the leaves, dyed and interwoven |
| Typical pieces | Placemats, coasters, napkin holders, bread baskets | Napkin rings, hand fans, ornaments |
| Result | Structured, detailed shapes | Colorful, intricate woven pieces |
Why does it matter at the table?
Because every piece is 100% handmade from natural fibers, no two are exactly alike. Slight variations in color, shape and weave are part of the handmade character. For care guidance, see how to clean and care for woven palm placemats.
Who is behind Coro Cora?
Coro Cora is a B Corp certified company that works with artisan communities in Colombia. Read the full story in From Loom to Table and learn why we make some pieces to order in Slow Craft at the Table.
Explore the collections
- Placemats (Iraca palm)
- Napkin rings (Toquilla and Iraca palm)
- Hand fans (Toquilla palm)
You may also like the complete guide to hand-woven placemats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Coro Cora's products made?
In Colombia, by artisans in Usiacurí (Iraca palm) and Sandoná (Toquilla palm).
Are Coro Cora's pieces handmade?
Yes. All of the items are 100% handmade from natural fibers.
Why do pieces differ slightly from each other?
Handmade work varies in color, size and weave. These differences are part of the natural character of each piece.
