José Alberto Huitzil Toxqui, owner of a renowned papel picado factory in San Pedro Cholula, has managed to keep alive a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation in his family. In this locality and in other nearby municipalities like Quecholac, Huixcolotla, Tecamachalco, and Tochimilco, there are artisans dedicated to the creation of papel picado, thus contributing to the preservation of this rich cultural expression.
Toxqui emphasizes the importance of creativity and passion required to work with papel picado, highlighting the fundamental role that the wind plays in bringing the colorful creations to life. He points out that, despite the existence of imported products, the value of artisanal papel picado lies in the effort, dedication, and originality that each piece represents.
The prices of the products vary depending on the complexity of the design, ranging from five to forty pesos. The Huitzil Toxqui factory, located in San Pedro Cholula, prepares year-round to supply celebrations like weddings and local festivities, making it a place of interest for both national and international visitors.
Since 2004, the "Papel picado Cholula" team has begun preparing designs for the Día de Muertos season, using materials such as tissue paper, metallic paper, and plastic. The cutting techniques include chisel and hammer, die-cutting, and laser cutting, allowing for the creation of personalized and specific designs, as well as reproductions in large quantities.
During the busiest sales season in June, the factory receives tourists from different parts of the world interested in purchasing these artisanal products. The most popular designs during Día de Muertos include figures of bakers, catrinas, catrines, and representations of trades, always adapting to the traditions and social events of the region.
The papel picado factory remains active until December 22, employing a team of between 20 and 25 temporary workers, and five permanent employees. Huitzil Toxqui also focuses on providing job opportunities to young students, offering part-time jobs. The company participates in the decoration of temples and churches during the month of December, when sales are mainly wholesale.
