OUR STORY
Artesano was founded in 2014 by Miami-based entrepreneurs Claudia Estrada and Xavier Blum, both born in Guayaquil, Ecuador. United by a deep pride in their homeland’s legacy of craftsmanship, they created Artesano to honor the artistry passed down through generations.
The name itself — meaning “handcrafted” — reflects the heart of the brand: every piece is made by hand with intention and care. From eco-conscious fibers to ethically sourced felted wool, our materials are thoughtfully chosen to support both artisans and the environment. At Artesano, responsibility is not a trend but a commitment — to craftsmanship, to community, and to the natural world that inspires us.
OUR MATERIALS
TOQUILLA STRAW
Toquilla straw is the material behind many of our pieces. Harvested from the Carludovica Palmata plant, native to regions spanning Central America to Bolivia, each fiber begins as a palm leaf carefully cut by hand. The strands are then boiled, bleached, and dried before artisans begin the intricate weaving process. The result is true craftsmanship.
PINATEX
Piñatex® is an innovative material crafted from fibers derived from pineapple leaves, a natural byproduct of existing agriculture that helps reduce waste. Designed to echo the look and feel of leather, it offers a responsible alternative without compromising durability or style. We thoughtfully incorporate Piñatex into select handbags as part of our commitment to conscious craftsmanship.
TAGUA NUT BEADS
Tagua beads bring a sculptural finish to many of our hats and beaded bags. Hand-carved from the seeds of the Phytelephas palm — often called “vegetable ivory” for their smooth, luminous surface — each bead is shaped by artisans, celebrating the beauty of natural materials through thoughtful craftsmanship.
OUR FOUNDERS
Xavier Blum serves as Operations Director at Artesano, overseeing the brand’s global presence and ensuring its collections are represented with consistency and care worldwide. After studying commerce at American University, he built a diverse professional background spanning hospitality and events — experiences that shaped his strong focus on partnership, service, and brand experience.
Deeply committed to both social impact and sustainable development across Latin America, Xavier approaches growth with intention, helping Artesano expand responsibly while maintaining the integrity of its craftsmanship.
Claudia Estrada serves as Artesano’s Creative Director, shaping the brand through a lens of thoughtful design and intentional craftsmanship. After studying fashion at Miami International University, she built an early foundation in brand development and retail, launching both a successful boutique, TOFF, and her own clothing line in her early twenties.
A longtime advocate for responsible production and environmental stewardship, Claudia places these values at the core of her creative vision — ensuring each Artesano piece reflects a balance of artistry, purpose, and respect for the natural world.
OUR TEAM
We partner with skilled artisans across Ecuador’s coastal and mountainous regions, where generations of makers have preserved the art of weaving. Working from their homes and ateliers, these artisans carry forward techniques passed down through centuries — a living tradition woven into every piece.
At Artesano, we are honored to support this enduring craftsmanship, helping safeguard a cultural legacy while sharing its beauty with the world.
