Unwrapping the Stories: Momo Wool Blankets
It’s been freezing here in North Carolina lately, and I’ve been staying warm in the evenings by wrapping up in my colorful striped wool Momo blanket. Welcome to another chapter of our "12 Days of Christmas: Unwrapping the Stories" series. Today, we’re sharing the story behind these cozy heirloom blankets that come all the way from the mountains of Momostenango in Guatemala.
Earlier this year, Chris and I visited Byron Ralac Arguetan in Momostenango. He's the leader of a weaving cooperative that’s keeping this incredible craft alive. His family and others in the community turn raw wool into the soft, beautiful blankets we love.
Byron took us to see the local hot springs, which are a key part of the blanket-making process. Twice a week, artisans soak wool blankets in the steaming waters to shrink and felt them to perfection. While we didn’t get to see the blankets soaking during our visit, we explored the area and watched the steam rise from the boiling springs. On other days, the springs serve as a communal spot for locals to wash clothes and bathe—a reminder of the resourcefulness and connection of this community.
Back at Byron’s workshop, we watched the rest of the blanket-making process. Local sheep herders provide the wool, which is cleaned, brushed, and spun into yarn. After being dyed vibrant colors, the yarn is woven into blankets on massive wooden looms. Each step is done by hand with care and skill passed down through generations.
After the blankets are taken off the loom, the hot spring soak is the next step. Can you imagine how heavy they must be when the artisans carry them back from the hot springs and lay them out to dry in the sun? The final step is often done by Byron's mother - a gentle brushing with a brush made from dried seed pods. You should see the Byron's mother's biceps - she is so strong from all the brushing!
