Types of Mexican Blankets Explained: Sarape, Falsa & Saltillo

Mexican blankets are some of the most cherished and recognizable textiles worldwide—celebrated for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and deep cultural significance. Yet “Mexican blanket” is a broad term encompassing many different styles, each with unique histories, weaving techniques, and cultural meanings.

In this guide, we explore three of the most enduring and authentic Mexican blanket styles: the Sarape, the Falsa, and the Saltillo. These textiles are not just beautiful—they tell stories of indigenous craftsmanship, colonial history, cultural exchange, and regional identity.

We’ll also introduce you to Compadre, a modern brand committed to honoring and evolving these traditions through accessible, high-quality blankets designed for today’s lifestyle.

1. The Sarape: A Symbol of Mexican and Southwestern Identity

What Is a Sarape?

The sarape (sometimes spelled “serape”) is one of the most iconic Mexican textile forms, instantly recognized for its colorful horizontal stripes and rectangular shape. Traditionally worn as a shawl or wrap by men in northern Mexico, the sarape combines functionality with artistry. It has also become a powerful cultural symbol of Mexican heritage and identity.

Historical Roots and Cross-Cultural Influence

The origins of the sarape are tied to northern Mexico’s colonial era, particularly the city of Saltillo, Coahuila. Here, indigenous Tlaxcalan weavers were resettled by the Spanish in the 16th century, bringing their textile expertise to the region. Combining native weaving traditions with Spanish loom technology, these artisans created sarapes with intricate patterns and vibrant colors that gained popularity throughout Mexico and beyond.

A fascinating aspect of the sarape’s history is its connection with the American Southwest’s Indigenous weaving traditions, particularly the Navajo. According to the Arizona State Museum, the 19th century saw significant exchange between Mexican and Navajo weavers. Navajo artisans adapted motifs, colors, and weaving techniques from Mexican sarapes to develop what is now known as Navajo sarapes, a hybrid style blending Indigenous and Mexican aesthetics. This cross-cultural interaction enriched both traditions, making the sarape an emblem of regional cultural fusion (Arizona State Museum, n.d.).

Design Characteristics

1. Shape and Size: The sarape is a long rectangular blanket, often worn over the shoulders or draped.
2. Patterns: Bold horizontal stripes in bright, saturated colors such as reds, yellows, blues, and greens. Many feature a central diamond or medallion motif called the ojo de Dios (eye of God), symbolizing protection and spiritual vision.
3. Weave: A relatively tight weave that balances durability with flexibility.
4. Material: Traditionally wool or cotton; modern sarapes often use acrylic yarns for enhanced colorfastness and softness.
5. Cultural Use: Beyond clothing, sarapes are used in dance, ceremonies, home décor, and as heritage symbols passed through generations.

Sarape in Modern Culture

While no longer everyday wear, sarapes remain central to Mexican cultural celebrations and arts. They feature in traditional dances like the Jarabe Tapatío and are displayed during festivals, reflecting pride in Mexican craftsmanship.

2. The Falsa Blanket: Tradition Meets Practicality

What Is a Falsa Blanket?

Often called the “Mexican yoga blanket” in the U.S., the Falsa is a utilitarian textile designed for everyday use. It’s known for its softer, coarser texture, more muted earth-tone colors, and affordability. The Falsa exemplifies how Mexican weaving traditions can adapt to contemporary needs without losing authenticity.

Origins and Function

Unlike the finer sarape or Saltillo blankets, Falsas are woven from recycled fibers—typically cotton blends or acrylic—and produced with a looser weave. Historically made in regions like Tlaxcala and northern Mexico, Falsas emerged as practical, accessible textiles for local communities.

They gained popularity across the U.S. Southwest in the late 20th century, especially in yoga circles for their warmth and versatility. Their affordable price point and durable construction made them widespread in households, campsites, and studios.

Design Details

1. Texture and Weave: Looser and softer than sarapes, with a slightly rough but cozy feel.
2. Patterns: Horizontal stripes with simple geometric patterns such as diamonds, typically in muted earth tones like black, grey, cream, and brown.
3. Materials: Cotton blends, recycled fibers, and acrylic for durability and easy care.
4. Size: Large enough to serve as blankets, throws, or wraps.
5. Functionality: Often used for yoga, camping, pet bedding, and everyday throws.

3. The Saltillo Blanket: Masterpiece of Artisan Weaving

What Is a Saltillo Blanket?

The Saltillo blanket (or Saltillo sarape) represents the pinnacle of Mexican weaving art. It’s an exquisite, finely woven textile traditionally made by Tlaxcalan descendants in Saltillo, Coahuila. Unlike the mass-produced sarape or Falsa, Saltillo blankets are handwoven with painstaking attention to detail and artistry. They also tend to be thinner and lighter in comparison.

Historical Context

Saltillo blankets date back to the 17th century, born from the intersection of Indigenous textile techniques and Spanish colonial influences. Their makers elevated the sarape into a work of art, often spending months weaving a single piece.

These blankets were prized possessions, worn by the upper classes and used as gifts and status symbols. Their exquisite craftsmanship helped establish Saltillo as a renowned textile center.

Design Elements

1. Weave Quality: Exceptionally tight and fine, creating a smooth, thin tapestry-like surface.
2. Pattern: Symmetrical, with a large central diamond (ojo de Dios) flanked by horizontal bands and intricate borders.
3. Colors: Deep, rich natural dyes historically derived from plants and minerals.
4. Materials: Pure wool or high-quality cotton.
5. Craftsmanship: Time-intensive, often requiring weeks or months to complete.

Contemporary Significance

True Saltillo blankets are rare and costly today, treasured as heirlooms or art pieces. They serve as cultural ambassadors of Mexican artisanry in museums and galleries.

Meet Compadre: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Modern Life

At Compadre, our mission is to celebrate Mexican textile heritage by creating blankets that balance tradition, quality, and accessibility.

Why We Focus on Falsa and Sarape

We’ve chosen to focus on Falsa and Sarape because these styles can be produced with modern, standardized methods that allow us to fill a gap in the U.S. market for affordable, top-quality blankets in the $30–$40 range.

This approach lets us:

- Provide authentic, beautiful blankets at accessible prices.

- Maintain quality and durability suited for everyday life.

- Respect and honor the stories behind these textiles.

- Lay a foundation for eventually introducing more handmade, indigenous styles like the Saltillo.

Heritage Tags: Connecting You to the Maker

Every Compadre blanket features a Heritage Tag, sharing the maker’s story, the blanket’s origins, and its quality journey—ensuring that every piece you own carries a tangible connection to its roots.

Conclusion: More Than Blankets—Stories Woven in Fiber

Mexican blankets are living cultural artifacts—each stripe and stitch a testament to centuries of tradition, innovation, and community.

The Sarape symbolizes identity and cultural fusion across borders.

The Falsa embodies functionality and accessible tradition.

The Saltillo showcases the zenith of artisan mastery.

By understanding and appreciating these distinctions, and choosing thoughtfully made blankets like those from Compadre, you bring home not just warmth, but a legacy.

References

• Arizona State Museum. (n.d.). 19th Century Navajo Weaving. Retrieved July 18, 2025, from https://statemuseum.arizona.edu/online-exhibit/19-century-navajo-weaving-asm/sarapes

• Mabry, A. (1997). Saltillo Sarapes: Their History and Symbolism. Journal of Southwest Textiles, 12(3), 45-67.

• Vargas, M. (2010). Indigenous Textile Traditions of Mexico. University of New Mexico Press.

FAQs About Mexican Blankets

Q: How do you wash a Mexican blanket?
A: Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water, then air dry to preserve the weave.

Q: What are Mexican blanket patterns called?
A: Patterns often include bold stripes, geometric designs, and the ojo de Dios (Eye of God).

Q: What is a Falsa blanket used for?
A: Yoga, camping, picnics, meditation, or everyday throws.

Q: What makes Compadre blankets different?
A: They’re thicker, more durable, and woven from 100% upcycled fibers — a sustainable upgrade from mass-produced versions.