In its original form, the serape was intended as cheap accessible outer clothing. First worn by the poorer working folk of Mexico and Guatemala, serapes refers to the traditional striped weave that makes up the Mexican blanket or serape which was worn as a garment. The serape which can still be found today was made of a soft rectangular blanket with an opening in the middle where the wearer inserted his head.
Today, the serapes, often known as a falsa blanket or Saltillo have evolved into a more versatile blanket design. On vacations to Mexico and Central America, these serapes blankets can be found in the numerous markets and vendor stalls. The serape is noted for its inter-mixed, band-like colorful design. The largest stripe is always the primary color and repeated throughout weave, along with complimentary colors. Because of the nature of the weave, each finished serape blanket is a beautiful, unique work of textile art.
Because of their unique character and colorful charm, serapes add a decorative flair to any room in the house. They are a great addition for those looking to create a feeling of warmth to a room. If you are looking to overcome a dull feeling to any room, serapes bring life back to a room with their rich and vibrant colors accents. With their decorative versatility, serapes are unmatched in their use. Serapes can be used as a couch throw, table cover, bedspread or even a light floor covering or wall hanging! It is not uncommon to find serapes folded in a fan-shape to accentuate their colors hanging on a wall in many restaurants in Mexico. For those who want to recapture the flavor and feel of their Mexican vacation, a serape rekindles those pleasant memories.
Popular with just about everyone, Mexican serape blankets are a versatile textile. They are as much a hardy Yoga blanket, a picnic or beach blanket as a decorative touch. If you want to make a stay at the beach or a picnic extra special, lay out a serape and let its color add to the moment. You can be sure to expect compliments too!
A serape can also be used with a Mexican hammock for the ultimate in outdoor garden decorating style. The Mexican hammocks come in one solid color or multicolored rainbow. Just stretch out your hammock, through a serape across for extra comfort, add a pillow or two and you have the perfect outdoor sanctuary. You’ll never want to leave!
Serapes also make for a great gift. Because of their unique color and warmth, they make for great housewarming gifts or make a great going away present for someone off to college. For those who seem to struggle with finding the right gift for someone who is difficult to shop for, just watch as they light up when they unwrap your special gift to them.