Artisan Crafted Cotton Caftan with Pinewood Beads, "La Libertad"

"I am a textile artisan born in El Salvador to hard-working parents. You may already know my mom, she is Novica featured artisan Judith de Cuellar, and she specializes in traditional textile techniques. In fact it's thanks to her that I became interested in this art form. She is my main influence, and I admire her so much. Her greatest gift to me will always be her talent and her love for textile arts.
"I love working with textiles, because through them I can express my ideas and seeing customers’ acceptance is a great source of satisfaction.
"Sharing this art with mom has taught me a lot, and it's also given me many unforgettable moments – and funny ones too! Like the time when we were alone dancing in the kitchen enjoying the music and having a great time when all of a sudden we both slipped and fell… and broke the same tooth! Ouch! I'll never forget that…
"I have a good time working with textiles in the little workshop I have at home. The women arrive, I show them new techniques and designs, we plan the work and they take the materials home to work at their leisure and still be there for their children. I teach them how to weave, embroider, and to purposefully fray fabric.
"I've always enjoyed designing and creating so when I realized my products were being well received I became more motivated to carry on and make sure I am always doing better. My dream is to keep on growing in every sense, learning, designing, and be able to make it so my products may go beyond our borders and be met with acceptance.
"I love working with cotton because it is a natural material that is comfortable and fresh. And it looks so elegant when it is carefully woven into an original design. I like products that highlight people's beauty when they wear them, and that they feel pretty and comfortable.
"I also love designing home décor products and the fact that they make a difference to the interiors where they are displayed.
"I work along with my husband and daughter. I design and look after manufacturing processes, he looks after the administration and my daughter is in charge of communication and logistics. We work very well together, we love being together and work for our family's benefit.
"I m thrilled to be associated with Novica, because they offer a window to the world for my products. My family, and the women who work with us, are excited at this new experience."