Mesa fabric

What is a mesh fabric?

A mesa cloth is a traditional textile used as a base for a mesa – a collection of objects used in ceremonial contexts or personal practice. In Andean traditions, the mesa cloth functions as a place where objects are gathered with intention, order, and presence.

Table cloths are often used to collect power objects, khuyas, stones, herbs and other objects that have a special meaning to the practitioner. Many also use them as altar cloths or as a beautiful base for objects used in meditation, nature work or ceremony.

What does mesa mean?

The word mesa actually means "table" in Spanish, but within several Andean traditions the word is used to describe a collection of objects that carry personal, symbolic or ceremonial meaning.

What a mesa looks like varies between people and traditions. For some it contains khuyas, stones and herbs. For others it may contain objects that remind them of relationships, life experiences or important intentions.

How is a mesh fabric used?

Traditionally, the mesa fabric is used together with an inner fabric and a mesa band, sometimes called watana, which keeps the contents together.

The mesa cloth serves both as protection for the objects and as a place where they can be arranged and used in ceremonial contexts.

Many people use their mesa fabrics for:

• Power items and khuyas

• Stones and crystals

• Herbs and incense

• The altar

• Ceremonies

• Meditation and reflection

There is no right or wrong way to use a mesa fabric. How it is used is often shaped by one's own practice and relationship to the objects.

Traditional crafts from Peru

Our mesa fabrics come from Q'ero, Chinchero and Ausangate in the Andes of Peru, areas where weaving is still a living part of culture and everyday life.

Many of the fabrics are hand-woven by skilled artisans who pass on knowledge, patterns and techniques between generations. Depending on the origin, colors, patterns and details may differ. Chinchero is known for its colorful weaves and characteristic fringes, while Q'ero and Ausangate carry their own expressions and traditions.

Each mesa fabric is unique and bears traces of the craftsmanship, place and tradition behind its creation.

Frequently asked questions

Where do your table cloths come from?

Our mesa fabrics come from Q'ero, Chinchero and Ausangate in the Andes of Peru. Each area has its own weaving traditions, colors and patterns that give the fabrics their unique expression.

What is a mesh fabric used for?

Mesa cloths are traditionally used to collect power objects, khuyas, stones, herbs, and other items that are part of a mesa. They are also used as altar cloths and ceremonial mats.

Who uses mesh fabrics?

Mesa fabrics are used by many different people. They are found in Andean traditions and are used by paqos, shamans, ceremony leaders, practitioners of energy medicine, and people who work with nature relationships, meditation, and personal ceremonies.

How do I take care of my mesh fabric?

To preserve colors and fibers, we recommend gentle handling. If necessary, the fabric can be hand washed gently in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals and high heat. Let the fabric dry flat.

Is each mesa fabric unique?

Yes. Because the fabrics are woven by hand, there are natural variations in color, pattern, and detail. This makes each mesa fabric unique.

Can table cloths be used as altar cloths?

Yes. Many people use table cloths as altar cloths, both in ceremonial contexts and as part of a conscious space in the home.