‘The Textile Arts’ Fierucola Organic Market, November 5-6

The La Fierucola market of Textile Arts (Arti Tessili) will be back in Piazza Santa Croce to host skilled weavers in addition to other artisans and farmers with their organic products on November 5 – 6 (9 am to 7 pm), in an event that showcases the region’s artisans.

This market has been held since the 14th century. The fair will be focusing on the small, local farms with that breed free range sheep, goats, and cattle that are not primarily used for meat production.

Sweaters, blankets, scarves, and other comfy items available for purchase, will exhibit the softness and beauty of using natural yarn. With the weather becoming chilly, people will have the opportunity to stock up on winter gear, while helping the local farm economy.  Items include capes, scarves, hats, gloves, pullovers, dresses and even blankets, all created using natural dyes, as well as yarns. Look out for linen aprons from Romagna decorated with traditional patterns utilizing block printing with rust dyes.  This fair prides itself on providing such products while being as environmentally friendly as possible.

Craftsmen will be showcasing their useful objects made from local resources. Vividly colored ceramic bowls and olive wood bowls carved by hand will be available. In the square, makers will display other home accessories made from natural sources.  Visitors can watch manual weaving and children are invited to participate in a workshop teaching the hands-on use of natural dyes (Sunday, 3 – 4 pm).

The event will host a free workshop on eco-printing (a printing on fabric technique using natural dyes) on Saturday from 2 to 3 pm and on Sunday from 2:30 to 3:30 pm.  Artisans will also provide a live demonstration of spinning yarn from wool on both days at 11 am.

All aspects of small-scale farming will be displayed at the La Fierucola. Natural soap and skin care products demonstrate the benefits of organic beauty, while decorated woolen bags show how plastic-free shopping can be fashionable.

Keeping with the tradition of the Fierucola, seasonal products will be sold to satisfy appetites. Containing organic ingredients that are not chemically processed, vegetables and fruit from the farms will be available for purchase.

From breads and pastas made with hearty, antique grains, flour, and wheat, to jams, cheeses, honey, wine, and olive oils produced sustainably in the Tuscan hills, consumers can be sure they are receiving the best quality products that are locally sourced.