Artisan Sweaters(386 items)
Versatility, style, and comfort define our unique collection of handmade and handcrafted artisan sweaters. Ranging from solid color lightweight cotton pullovers to intricately patterned heavy wool cardigans and beautiful handknit sweaters, this collection showcases the many techniques and materials global artisans use to create our traditional and contemporary fashion favorites.
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The Village Council
Your answers straight from the village experts


Traditional methods of hand crafting robes vary by region, culture, and historical context. Two common techniques that allow artisans to create luxurious, wearable, highly-detailed robes are hand-painting and hand-stitching. In Bali, where the practice of making robes by hand has been passed down for generations, the traditional method of batik is a signature style. The Batik Tulis, for example, is a technique that utilizes wax-resistant dye that is then applied directly to the cloth. It is an intricate, patient process that can produce extraordinarily detailed pieces. Batik Cap is another classic technique where a copper stamp is repeatedly pressed with the wax-resistant dye onto the cloth. This process creates patterns on the garment that are then dip-dyed to saturate color into the unwaxed parts of the robe. Both batik techniques produce unique pieces that represent the incredible talent of our artisans in Bali.


Each region puts its signature mark on its handmade robes. In Thailand, for example, designs featuring geometric patterns and labyrinth motifs are trending. These patterns are hand-woven to create a ruched texture that highlights the intricacy of each garment. From Bali to Java, our artisans have seen their batik motifs become customer favorites. These wearable canvases feature both hand-painted and hand-printed designs, making for vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces that allow for artisans and customers to showcase their individuality.


The fit, feel, and fabric of a robe should transport you to a place of rest and relaxation. Novicas handmade robes exude comfort, because artisans attend to every detail with painstaking care. Robes made from silk, cotton, or rayon can provide high levels of comfort and versatility. One should look for breathability, absorbency, and versatility when purchasing a robe. Additionally, hypoallergenic fibers, like cotton, can provide comfort to those with sensitive skin. Whether one is looking for a lightweight fabric or a lavishly-woven robe, every handmade piece from Novica artisans brings an expressive twist to new styles and a fresh take on the classics.


Handmade robes are fine, delicate pieces. These garments require a bit more care when it comes to laundering. Hand-washing in cold water always produces the best results. For machine wash, one can use cold water and the delicate cycle. Avoid twisting or harshly handling the fabric, and never use intense heat settings while drying the robe. Air drying while the fibers are laid flat will help to prevent excessive wear on the fabric, as well as preserve the vibrancy of the robes colors. Always dry a batik or hand-painted robe in the shade.


The journey of the traditional robe throughout history is meandering and culturally specific. Here are just a few of the important stops along the way. In Japan, kimonos are an adaptable garment that have been a staple of cultural fashion since the Heian period. The robes from Bali are influenced by the classic Japanese kimono and yukata. The kimono is crafted with silk and worn over many layers in the winter while the yukata is a summer garment made with a single layer of cotton. Both of these styles reflect the artisans' take on a traditional style. In prehistoric Rome, robes were used to identify social status and to signify special ranks within communities. And by the 1700s, dressing gowns were a fashionable piece in the western wardrobe.


The most popular materials for crafting handmade robes are natural fibers such as silk and cotton. Because silk is a light-weight, water-resistant fiber, it provides the wearer a sense of luxury and comfort. Rayon is a natural-based material made up of an organic compound derived from cotton extract or wood pulp. This fiber is extremely durable, breathable, and cost effective. Cotton is celebrated for its comfortability and elasticity, and it provides excellent insulation. These fibers make for garments that exude luxury and relaxation.
Women's Sweaters
Men's Sweaters
Featured Reviews on Artisan Sweaters
Alpaca blend sweater, 'Samba Sizzle'





By Donna
MY favorite sweater
The colors are beautiful, although it is very lightweight it is actually quite warm. The knit is tight enough that I dont need to wear a cami or shirt under it unless I want to. Very nice quality and shipping was fast. Thank you so much
100% alpaca sweater, 'Blue Andean Poinsettia'





By Beverly
I love this sweater!
I love this sweater! It is a beautiful design and color. The size large is roomy and comfortable without appearing baggy. It is chilly in Alaska, so I usually wear a wool turtleneck underneath the cardigan. aI have another alpaca sweater, as well as alpaca socks and they all are super soft and keep be very warm. I will look for more products made of Alpaca wool from Novice in the future.
100% baby alpaca cardigan, 'Cherry Romance'





By Lindje
Beautiful Warm Soft
Absolutely beautiful floral design and silky soft to the hand and body. The colors are saturated and stunning. The buttons are wood with a flower design carved (or engraved) within. The edges of the sleeves and bottom hem have a delicate scallop. I ordered a size large and it fits perfectly. Overall, I would say that this is going to be one of my favorite lifelong sweaters.
Popular Artisan Sweaters
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Cozy Knit Travel Cardigan Sweater, "Cozy Wanderer"
$175Enjoy lightweight warmth that adapts to any style with this supersoft sweater coat. A simple but endlessly versatile addition to your travel wardrobe, its knee-length suits dresses, skirts, and pants alike. Go from airport to restaurant, or from relaxing at home to running errands without missing a beat. Features front patch pockets and a cozy shawl collar. Imported.
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Ombre Fade Knit Cotton Blend Pullover Sweater from Peru, "Sunset in Spring"
$99.95Knit from a cotton and viscose blend, this feminine pullover evokes the colors of spring. Intricate chevron and stripe patterns are diligently incorporated into the fibers. Peruvian artisan Patricia Lopez creates this pullover, which is dyed in ombre tones of lavender and marigold.
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Forest Spruce Teal Baby Alpaca Pullover Sweater, "Teal Charm"
$99.99Soft and luxurious, a baby alpaca blend in rich teal tones takes shape as a beautiful pullover. The women's sweater by Wilber Calapuja features a crew neck and long sleeves that fall from a drop shoulder. Lightweight and warm, the openwork knit combines with cable stitches to go everywhere in style. Baby alpaca refers to the fine fleece from the season's first shearing.
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