Benita Cutipa "I always wanted to participate in programs that would empower our women… I decided to offer classes to people from marginalized neighborhoods, training them in handicrafts." Born in Cuzco on June 27, 1946, Benita Cutipa de Lopez received a teaching degree in home economics that included pattern making, sewing, knitting, embroidery, manual arts and pastries. "I always knew I wanted to do something that would help my country's development," she says. "I always wanted to participate in programs that would empower our women, and I began organizing courses for groups of mothers and farm wives from the Puno highlands. At the time, they were experiencing a severe drought." Even after marrying and forming her own family, she never lost sight of these ideals. "I decided to offer classes to people from marginalized neighborhoods, training them in handicrafts and forming cottage industries that would work with the region's natural resources. I chose alpaca wool as a medium to make garments." Cutipa is a much-loved person in Peru. She has participated in many, many craft fairs and has won awards that include the prestigious Hatun Raymi for her designs in alpaca wool. "I love my work, and am thrilled to be able to do what I love most, while at the same time providing a livelihood for my assistants, other women of my country," she confides. "My family works with me. I love the idea of joining forces with Novica and hope you like our work. Thank you!"

	Customer Reviews
		The shawl is absolutely exquisite. My mother is going to adore it. The stitchwork so delicate, the wool so soft, and the color all makes it a wonderful piece of artwork. Every person I've shown it too has been severely impressed. I will most definitely look to your listings in the for future gifts. - Lisa S, New Albany, Indiana, USA Beautiful items just as in the web site. - Catherine D The texture and feel of the product far surpasses any wool products I have bought in the past. It's sooooo soft and lovely. Excellent craftsmanship - S Patton, Canada I ordered and received both the shawl, Cream Lace, and the poncho, Winter Sky. They are both so soft, beautiful, and well-made! I love them and have received dozens of compliments. I also appreciate the fact that Ms. Cutipa holds classes for people to help them empower themselves. I will definitely purchase more of Ms. Cutipa's wonderful alpaca handicrafts in the future. - Kristine W, Philadelphia, PA, USA Thank you, Ms. Cutipa, for the beautiful shawl! I wore it at my wedding and it felt and looked wonderful. I will treasure it for its beauty and the memories I already have wearing it! - Rachel E, San Francisco, CA USA I could not resist buying the shawl as an xmas gift for myself! I had been watching it for months and am now thrilled it is mine! It is so special and lovely - I will treasure it for years to come! - S. M., San Diego, CA The Ethereal Rosewood shawl is much more than I expected. The workmanship is exceptional and the shawl is so soft and cozy. It is beautiful. Thank You - Carol Hanson, Prairie Farm, WI, Unitied States What a fabulous scarf! I just received the baby alpaca scarf I ordered, and I couldn't believe how quick it arrived, but also, what amazing quality it is. The texture is so soft and the red pompoms are really fun! Thank you Benita Cutipa for a great winter wardrobe piece, much luck to you in the future, and thank you Novica for your role in supporting these artists! - S C, Santa Fe, NM USA i purchased a scarf from you for my daughter it arrived for Christmas she loves it. you are making a wonderful product. - derek frankland, england I just received the "history rising" alpaca scarf and it is absolutely beautiful! The stitchwork is so fine and delicate, the scarf is so soft, and the design is just exquisite. Thank you for this wonderfully wearable work of art, Benita. -Tina, NY - Tina I received the Blueberry Sprinkles hat, gloves & scarf. I love them. So soft, and well made! Thank you, Benita, for your attention to detail and great craftsmanship. - Sherry I just received the Alpaca wool scarf "Licorice Fun", and it is delicious! My girlfriend will love its soft touch and close warmth. Thank you so much! I will be back. - Tim, Austin/Texas/USA