handcrafted

The colorful mountains of Colombia are a testimony to the region's vibrant and cheerful traditions. Drawing inspiration from the country's colorful textiles and natural landscapes, designer Lorette Menjura works with local artisans to create this acrylic coin purse with a colorful geometric pattern in a tufted style. The accessory also features a zippered closure, a braided strap, a cute blue pompom and a polyester lining.

An enchanting vibe emerges from Fernando Cano's scarf, made in festive green hues. Crafted in Peru, this 100% alpaca design features the Andean textile's typical softness and a lovely nature-inspired pattern made of geometric figures for a classic look.

One of the best ways to find peace is by traveling because you can discover wonderful places, new aspects of yourself and the tranquility of learning that your problems become small compared to the big, vast world. This is Peruvian artisan Kathiana Quispe's particular vision of what world peace means and she conveys it in this delightful leather passport cover that invites you to find your way to your next destination soon. Embellished with an acrylic Andean textile and the image of an introspective llama, the passport cover features two interior pockets to carry your documents safely.

Intricate geometric motifs come to life in radiant colors derived from natural dyes. Artisans of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco work with ancestral techniques to create fashion for today and always. This elegant ruana cape is woven by hand of fine alpaca wool, prized by the ancient Inca for its lightweight warmth. The cloak of many colors includes red, goldenrod yellow, fuchsia and orange, among others.

The community raises and cares for its own alpacas. The fleece is washed, carded and spun by hand using a pushka, or drop spindle. The dyes come from plants, nuts and tree bark. The next step is one of the most important, as the artisan prepares the warp, or vertical threads for the backstrap loom. This determines the size of the textile, the color combinations, and the patterns that will be woven.

The intensity of color can vary depending on the hardness of the water, the altitude and the local dye sources, making each textile a unique piece of handcrafted art.

Proud of his roots and determined to spread the Andean culture, artisan Rogelio Quispe handcrafts this cozy hat from alpaca, allowing for a soft texture perfect for those chilly winter days. Putting attention to each little detail, the artisan adds traditional motifs, combining a colorful palette with an ivory base tone.