The Embroidery of Mexico

Artist and researcher Gimena Romero takes readers deep into the symbolic language of stitch, tracing its threads from indigenous communities to contemporary urban streetscapes.

Discover:

• distinct regional styles including Tenango, Street, Mazahua, Toninero, Mixe and Purépecha embroidery, each introduced through vibrant photography, storytelling and in-depth technique;
• experimental practices such as Lavín embroidery (using human hair) and Romero’s own abstract, texture-based compositions;
• stitches, motifs and techniques including: Tenango foot, Xi (tree leaf), Zigzag, Eye, Leaves; fruit-based filler stitches like Open banana, Pineapple, Strawberry and Woven watermelon; embroidered pansies; Mixe stitches rooted in regional language and culture, and contemporary embellishment techniques: Cortés braid, Moss, Mexican coral stitch and Interlinked hearts;
• practical guidance on tools, materials, and transferring designs;
• 8 pages of full-size templates, ready to copy off and use.

Stitches are not merely technical tools they carry symbolic, poetic meaning. Many are named in indigenous languages or with metaphorical phrases that reflect daily life, identity and ritual. Gimena encourages readers not only to replicate these stitches and embroideries, but also to reinterpret them in their own artistic voices.