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.
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.
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.
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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.
MATERIALS
The majority of our materials are eco-conscious and vegan, thoughtfully selected for their quality, longevity, and reduced environmental impact. By honoring both traditional techniques and enduring materials, we create pieces designed to be worn — and treasured — for years to come.
TOQUILLA STRAW
Toquilla straw is the signature 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.
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.
MOCORA STRAW
Mocora straw is a distinctive fiber featured in select hats and shoes. Sourced from the Astrocaryum standleyanum palm, each leaf is carefully harvested using chisels mounted on long bamboo poles — a traditional, non-destructive method that protects the life of the tree. The result is a material prized for both its durability and its connection to responsible craftsmanship.