Wool tapestry, "Andean Tears"

The San Pedro de Cajas wooden handloom bears the name of the Andean town that for generations has used it to create beautiful weavings. Nearly everyone in the town knows how to weave. San Pedro de Cajas is also Raul Ulloa's hometown. Growing-up there, he learned to weave from his father. Raul treasures his artistic legacy - today in his workshop he uses this same loom and traditional techniques to create contemporary tapestries and accessories that honor the legacy of Peruvian woven cultural treasures.

At the turn of this century when Raul began to work with Novica, he lived and worked in a tiny rented house - fearful that he would be unable to support his wife and newborn child. Today, his Novica sales support his family. He has been able to acquire additional looms, grow his workshop and experience the joy of sending his two children to school.

Raul Ulloa Baylon has received 8 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $800 and the most recent for $1400. Proceeds were used to invest in the purchase of alpaca and sheep wool, his principal materials for production.

Providing his children with the best education possible is Raul's goal. Sending his two children to school brings him joy.

Raul once feared he would be unable to provide for his first child. Today he is able to support his two children.