A Tribute to Tradition: Welcoming a New Colcha Embroidery Piece at Blackbird Santa Fe
At Blackbird Santa Fe, I’m delighted to share a close-up of a stunning Colcha Embroidery piece—rooted in the Spanish Colonial arts of Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. While this particular piece will not be available for sale until July next year, I couldn’t wait to share its beauty and the story behind the craft with you.
What is Colcha Embroidery?
The term colcha comes from the Spanish word for a bedcovering or quilt, but historically it evolved into describing a distinctive embroidered textile—especially in New Mexico’s colonial era.
A few hallmarks of Colcha Embroidery:
The signature colcha stitch—a long, flowing laid thread secured with small “tacking” stitches—creates graceful curves and movement.
Traditionally made with hand-spun wool yarn (often from Churro sheep) on sabanilla, a hand-woven wool cloth.
Natural dyes such as cochineal, indigo, and chamisa gave the yarn its rich, earthy tones.
Designs often feature flowers, vines, birds, and religious imagery—expressions of faith, daily life, and the surrounding landscape.
Why It Matters in Santa Fe & the Spanish Colonial Arts Tradition
Colcha embroidery is a cornerstone of the Spanish Colonial Arts—a living heritage still celebrated each year at Santa Fe’s Traditional Spanish Market. It represents both artistry and resilience, carrying the stories of generations who transformed simple materials into intricate works of beauty.
More than decoration, colcha embodies:
The ingenuity of colonial women who embroidered their surroundings into everyday textiles.
A visual record of life, faith, and environment in northern New Mexico.
A revival of tradition through the dedication of modern artists and mentors who keep the practice alive.
My Journey with Colcha Embroidery
I began embroidery in Kindergarten, drawn to the rhythm of the needle and the quiet joy of creating with thread. What started as simple stitches grew into a lifelong appreciation for the textures and stories woven into fabric.
Today, I am deeply fortunate to be under the mentorship of Julia Gomez, one of the leading contemporary masters of Colcha Embroidery. Julia’s guidance has helped me connect the technical skill of the art form with its deeper cultural and spiritual meaning. Her mentorship is both an honor and an inspiration, and I am grateful to learn from her knowledge and her heart.
About This Particular Piece
While this piece will officially be for sale in July 2026, it already feels like a conversation between past and present.
The design flows with floral motifs that echo vintage colchas, yet carries a contemporary rhythm and palette.
Each stitch is intentional—rooted in heritage, guided by mentorship, and inspired by my own creative journey.
Why Wait Until July?
This piece will be part of next summer’s collection, allowing time to honor the process:
To document its creation and share its story properly.
To celebrate the craft during Santa Fe’s Traditional Spanish Market season.
To give collectors and admirers a chance to anticipate and connect with its journey.
How You Can Engage Now
Take a close look at the details—the stitch movement, texture, and natural tones.
Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-stitch moments, materials, and process stories.
Reach out if you’d like to be notified when the piece becomes available next July.
Final Thoughts
In a world of instant everything, Colcha Embroidery reminds us to slow down—to appreciate art made by hand, heart, and heritage. It’s slow art. It’s rooted. It’s alive.
Thank you for being part of this journey with Blackbird Santa Fe. I hope you’ll continue to follow along as this piece evolves, from my hands to its future home.
Warmly,
Consuelo Pineda
Blackbird Santa Fe
📧 consueloelisa@gmail.com
🌐 blackbirdsantafe.com
Colcha Embroidery Wall Hanging, by Artist Consuelo Pineda.
