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Article: The Sandona range: The Art of Artisan Woven Placemats

mix of plates and woven plates

The Sandona range: The Art of Artisan Woven Placemats

When it comes to setting a beautiful table, every detail matters. From the centerpiece to the cutlery, each element contributes to the overall ambiance. One often overlooked but essential item is the placemat. And not just any placemat, but an artisan woven placemat. In this blog post, we will explore the artistry behind these exquisite table accessories and why they are a must-have for any discerning host or hostess.

What makes artisan woven placemats special?

Artisan woven placemats are meticulously crafted by skilled artisans from the Sandoná region of Colombia, who have honed their craft over generations. These woven  placemats are made using traditional weaving techniques, the same used in the iconic Panama hats,  passed down from one generation to another. The attention to detail in the weaving patterns and the use of high-quality sustainable Iraca Palm  result in woven placemats that are not only visually stunning but also durable and long-lasting.

Artisan weaving with Iraca Palm

Why choose artisan woven placemats?

  • Sophistication: Woven Placemats add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any table setting. The intricate patterns and textures created through the weaving process create a visual feast for the eyes.
  • Sustainability: These woven placemats are made with a natural  material: Iraca Palm, making them an eco-friendly choice. 
  • Versatility: artisan woven placemats are versatile and can be used for both formal and casual occasions, making them a practical investment.
Woven placemats in a red and white table setting
Woven beaded placemat in yellow black and white table setting
Woven placemat with tagua border in a green and white table setting

Introducing Sandoná: our Range of Woven Placemats

Now that you understand the artistry and benefits of artisan woven placemats, it's time to introduce you to Nariño, our very own range of Woven placemats. Wether using a unique weaving technique or combining the basic weave with other techniques - this range is just dreamy. 

The Alicia woven placemat



The newest addition to our Sandoná Range, Alicia is jewellery for your table. An elegant woven placemat with a Panama Hat base with a chaquira beaded border, hand-woven by the indigenous people of Risaralda. This technique is rooted in the traditional beading craft that has its roots back to the Spanish conquest - when conquistadores traded glass beads for gold. Available in three colour ways. 

The Flecos woven placemat



Our best selling woven placemat - Flecos is handwoven in a mix of techniques to achieve its beautiful woven pattern. Larger than most of our placemats at 44cm, it is designed to be the perfect base layer piece for the Layered Table - its fringe peeking from beneath to add depth to our tablescapes. Available in three colours - Black, Natural and Marsala. 

The Tagua woven placemat



One of our favourite pieces in the  Sandoná Range, Tagua brings a tropical chic feel to your table. An elegant woven placemat with a Panama Hat base,  with a border of hand stitched slices of Tagua seed. Tagua, a tropical palm seed, is coined the vegetarian ivory for its similarity to real Ivory - it is widely used in Colombia in indigenous jewellery and traditional religious artifacts. Available in two colour ways: Ivory and Café.  

How to care for artisan woven placemats?

While artisan woven placemats are durable, they do require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here are a few tips:


  • Wipe them clean with a damp cloth after each use.
  • Avoid placing hot dishes directly on the placemats to prevent damage.
  • Store them flat or rolled up to maintain their shape.
  • Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight for extended periods to prevent fading.

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