Silk, a symbol of elegance and sophistication in many cultures around the world, has also found fertile ground in Colombia to take root and flourish. Although originating in Asia, sericulture (silkworm breeding) was introduced to the American continent by Spanish colonists as early as the 16th century. However, it is only more recently that Colombia has rediscovered the value of this noble fiber, reinterpreting it through the skilled hands of local artisans and sustainable social economy projects.

Silk is a natural fiber produced by the silkworm (Bombyx mori) during the construction of its cocoon. The process begins with the rearing of silkworms, which feed exclusively on mulberry leaves, a plant cultivated in specific rural areas of the country.

The main steps to obtain silk include:

1. Silkworm Rearing: This takes place in controlled environments where temperature and humidity are regulated to ensure optimal conditions.
2. Cocoon Formation: After about 25-30 days, the silkworms begin to spin their cocoons, a structure formed by a continuous thread that can reach up to 1,500 meters in length.
3. Harvesting and Reeling: The cocoons are carefully collected and immersed in hot water to soften the sericin (the gummy substance that holds the thread together). This is followed by reeling, which is the extraction and spinning of the silk thread.
4. Spinning and Warping: The threads are joined, rolled, and transformed into skeins ready for dyeing and weaving.

Regarding dyeing, many Colombian artisans use natural dyes obtained from local plants such as indigo (añil), oak (roble), turmeric, or cundiamor. The dyes are applied patiently, sometimes repeated in multiple baths to achieve intense and long-lasting shades.