Handcrafted Yellow Cotton Dangle Earrings with Sun Motif, "Yellow Sun"

Update (August, 2019)

“It was my grandmother who taught me how to crochet; something for which I will be eternally grateful. It was the love I had for the technique that encouraged me to create jewelry with this detail, and I must say that it has been very satisfactory.

“At the beginning it was a slow process, since the work entails enormous perseverance and discipline. I remember the pain in my hands when I was practicing. At first I offered my products in bazaars. That was when I met NOVICA, which has given me the opportunity to reinvent myself and keep growing. They showed me that my product would have a worldwide focus.

“A challenge that is constantly being perfected is the quality of the work; since it implies dedication to achieve accurate replication. But it is exciting to be in that constant work of improvement.

“I learned to obey my intuition, which is one of the tools I use most when creating a new pattern. I have learned that it is of utmost importance to listen to the voice within you. It is never wrong.

“Thanks to this wonderful project it is possible to support myself in my home, and in the education of my children, as well as their immediate needs. As a woman it is very satisfying to support a household; and if you do it in a way that you are passionate about, it is more than enough.

“I want to continue sharing the wealth of my country, as well as the customs of the grandmothers who gave us so much since we were very young.”

Original Artisan Story

"My name is Martha Rocio Elizalde and I consider myself a very enterprising, persistent and friendly woman. I started designing Mexican clothes as a hobby. My desire to see myself differently led me to make changes to some of my clothing, and then I began creating my own designs.

"When I realized that other people liked my designs, I started to think about creating my own collection. I'm inspired by women and their desire to look good, and I want people who wear my apparel and accessories to feel completely satisfied. I like to spend time with them, see them, listen to them and understand how they feel about my collection.

"I love working with color combinations and seeing how elegant a design can become. The most challenging part can be giving each one its own unique style. Working on my own has been a bit difficult because of the lack of funds. I'm motivated to continue this project because it's an opportunity I enjoy and I also want to help women in my neighboring communities by offering them the opportunity to work from home.

"I use handwoven fabrics — mainly cotton — trimmed with crocheted lace and hand-embroidery. I'm in charge of the design and the final touches of each piece.

"I'd love to leave my life in the city and live in a small artisan community. I hope to work harder so I can continue helping women artisans and, at the same time, I hope the work can benefit them, not only economically but also to realize the potential in their skills.

"My own personal objective is to give my children a life without pressure so they can be as free as their dreams."