FINISHING SHOP FOR GARMENTS WOVEN ON BACK-STRAP LOOMS The Highlands of Chiapas Photography by Eniac Martínez   Dyeing Traditional dyeing methods continue today, despite the availability of pre-dyed thread. The cochineal insect is caught and used to provide a deep red color. Sea snails are used to obtain purple. Plants, tree bark, and fruit are also used: yellow is obtained from the zacatlaxcalli vine, red from annatto seeds, and black from charcoal. Commercial dyes and blue from indigo plants complete the range of colors currently used in textiles.