Cati Vicens is passionately committed to preserving a special part of Mallorcan culture. As co-owner of the family-run textile business Teixits Vicens in Pollença, she is the fourth generation to carry on the centuries-old tradition of tongue fabrics, known as telas de llengües. It is believed that these fabrics originated in the Orient before reaching the island, where they then developed independently.

The fabrics are created using a labour-intensive process based on the ikat technique. To achieve this, strands of cotton and linen yarn are carefully wrapped in paper or recycled bicycle rubber at selected points and tightly tied before dyeing. As well as tablecloths, curtains and cushions, Teixits Vicens now also uses this technique to produce bags, clothing and home accessories.

"Craftsmanship is both our passion and our everyday life", Cati Vicens.

Today, there are only three weaving mills left in Mallorca that produce telas de llengües. These include the Vicens family’s business, as well as Bujosa in Santa Maria del Camí and Teixits Riera in Lloseta. To help preserve the craft, the Council of Mallorca has been working together with the Mallorcan textile association to secure a protected designation of origin for woven tongue fabrics.