unique gifts

This exquisite rayon batik robe by Desak Nyoman Parwati envelops the wearer in a languid Balinese danau ("lake") of swirling blue. As beautiful as it is comfortable, its flattering front-wrap style, wide sleeves and matching belt make this rayon robe a summer favorite.

This handpainted batik robe is a truly original work of art. Sunlight, water, dye and temperature all factor into the look of the finished robe. This should be considered a unique design made especially for you. Colors and pattern placement will vary.

The simple design of our zip-front sweater hides a 500-year history of wool textiles in Scotland. The unique material--felted lamb’s-wool that’s softer and cozier than synthetic fleece, but with all the advantages of natural wool--is made by Lochaven in the heart of Scotland’s traditional textile district of Stewarton. Our grey-trimmed, felted lamb’s-wool sweater is soft and naturally water-resistant, both wind-resistant and breathable. By training young apprentices in knitting, felting, and sewing techniques, they help keep time-honoured textile traditions alive and constantly bring new ideas into the industry. They’ve even become a respected costume creator for Hollywood films, including all of the Hogwarts school uniforms for the Harry Potter movies.

Vertical bands of earth tones distinguish this classic poncho for men. Artisans of the centre for Traditional Textiles of Cusco work with ancestral techniques to create fashion for today and always. Woven by hand of fine alpaca wool, prized by the ancient Inca for its lightweight warmth, its colours come from natural dyes. Geometric motifs pay tribute to the traditions of Chinchero, where time seems to have stood still for centuries.

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 colour combinations, and the patterns that will be woven.

The intensity of colour 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.