Open vs Closed Weave Rebozos: What’s the Difference?
One question we are increasingly asked is:
”Are your rebozos open weave or closed weave?”
It’s a good question, but it’s also one that can sometimes create more confusion than clarity.
The truth is that there is no single universal definition of what constitutes an “open weave” or “closed weave” rebozo. Different practitioners, suppliers and training organisations may use these terms in slightly different ways.
What’s often more important is understanding how the weave affects the feel, flexibility and use of the rebozo.
What Do People Mean by Open Weave and Closed Weave?
In simple terms, a weave refers to how the threads are interlaced to create the fabric.
At one end of the spectrum are very tightly woven fabrics such as canvas, denim or upholstery cloth. These fabrics have very little visible space between the threads and tend to feel firm and structured.
At the other end are highly open weaves, where the spaces between the threads are much more visible. Some decorative shawls, fashion wraps and lace-like textiles fall into this category. These fabrics are often lightweight and airy, but can feel quite different in the hand.
Most traditional Mexican rebozos sit somewhere between these two extremes.
Where Do Traditional Mexican Rebozos Fit?
Traditional Mexican rebozos have a visible woven structure that is part of their character.
Unlike tightly woven fabrics such as denim or canvas, the weave can often be seen and felt, while still providing the strength and versatility that have made rebozos useful for generations.
When you look closely at an authentic cotton rebozo, you’ll usually be able to see the individual threads and the woven pattern they create. This isn’t a flaw or a sign of weakness. It’s simply part of how traditional rebozos are made.
For generations, these textiles have been used throughout Mexico for carrying, wrapping, supporting, wearing and everyday life.
The weave provides a balance of strength, flexibility and breathability that makes the rebozo such a versatile textile.
Are More Than Tacos Rebozos Open Weave or Closed Weave?
Most of our rebozos have what we would describe as a traditional balanced weave.
They are not woven as tightly as fabrics such as canvas or denim, but neither are they extremely loose or lace-like in construction.
This traditional weave allows them to be:
- Strong and durable
- Flexible and easy to handle
- Comfortable to use
- Breathable in everyday life
- Suitable for birth support, babywearing and general use
In other words, they are woven in the style that has made the Mexican rebozo such a valued and versatile textile for generations.
What About Very Open Weave Rebozos?
Some rebozos and shawls are woven with a much more open structure.
These can be beautiful and lightweight, often with a more decorative appearance and flowing drape.
While they may suit certain preferences and uses, they can feel quite different from the traditional cotton rebozos commonly used by doulas, birth workers and families.
The More Important Question
When choosing a rebozo, the question is often not whether it is open weave or closed weave.
The more useful question is:
Does it have the strength, flexibility, breathability and drape needed for the way I want to use it?
Traditional Mexican rebozos have evolved over generations because they strike this balance exceptionally well.
Whether used for birth support, babywearing, comfort, carrying or everyday life, their versatility comes not from fitting neatly into a category, but from the unique combination of qualities that make a rebozo a rebozo.
At More Than Tacos, we source authentic Mexican rebozos from artisan communities in Mexico and focus on the qualities that have made these textiles trusted and loved for generations.
