Mexican blankets, or serapes, are as much a symbol of Mexico as sombreros or sugar skulls.

Historically, Churro sheep provided the wool, which was dyed with natural materials specific to various regions. Classic Mexican blankets were used as wraps and ponchos, saddle blankets and rugs.

Today's blankets are washable and available in a broader spectrum of colors.

Some of the more heavyweight Mexican blankets have become popular alternatives to traditional yoga mats. 

Imagination can lead to a myriad of other uses.

1. Pillows

Add some international flavor to a living space by folding the blanket in half over a pillow form and stitching up the sides. The pillows will look just as elegant, and be as durable, on the sofa as they would be on patio furniture.

2. Party decor

To add flair to a backyard barbecue or Cinco de Mayo party, consider using the blankets as tablecloths. Group several together to form a long runner, which can be scattered with maracas and colorful dishes of salsa and chips.

3. Concert/picnic quilt

The blankets make nice individual seating for summer concert events and picnics, but if a group of people plans to attend together, the rugs can be stitched together to form a large quilt.

4. Nursery decor

Because of their size, the blankets work perfectly in cribs. Consider pairing them with a colorful wall mural to give a baby an interesting pattern to stare at in something other than pastels.

5. Car seat cover

A chic alternative to cheap car seats, Mexican blankets can add color and texture to a car's interior.

6. Wall decor

Whether framed in a contemporary shadowbox, hung from a rod, or simply tacked to the wall, blankets add visual interest to wall space.

7. Drapes

Simply stitch blankets, end-to-end, and use the fringe to hang them from a curtain rod to jazz up windows. This also is a cheap DIY project for college students looking to personalize dorms.

8. Skirts

The blanket can be adapted into a variety of skirts, from mini wraps to longer work-appropriate versions.

9. Sleepovers

When there are more people than beds, a stash of Mexican blankets tucked away in a chest can help. Spread them across floor space to give guests a clean surface to sleep on.

10. Bath mat

Because of the tight weave, the blankets hold water in. The colors also will make an unexpected splash on bathroom floors.