wool art

Paola Cuentas designs a feminine long cardigan in sleek dark gray. Knitted of genuine 100% alpaca, the cardigan features patterned textures on the sleeves to contrast with the solid body. The ample front subtly rolls inwards to remain open.

The long tradition of exquisite textiles survives to these modern days in the talented hands of artisan Wilfredo Herencia of Peru. Refined alpaca yarns are woven to create this soft scarf of floral inspiration. Grey, pink, blue and yellow hues unite in this gorgeous winter piece, whose pattern merges blooms and geometric details.

Vertical bands of earth tones distinguish this classic poncho for men. Artisans of the Center 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 colors 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 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.

Maria Teresa Tejada knits reversible grey mittens from natural undyed alpaca wool to keep your hands warm and cozy.She grew up in rural Peru near Lima, appreciating both traditional life and modern apparel. It took time, but eventually she realized her dream of working to preserve Peru's traditional fibers and environment through the textile arts.

Master artisan Briseida Huete from Peru shows her skills through this superb scarf made with the spirit of the Andean region. The artisan uses refined alpaca yarns to craft this striped accessory, whose soft texture is decorated with lines of dark taupe, beige and grey colors to create a nocturnal aura.

Resembling patchwork, colorful stripes and intricate patterns are carefully knit up and down the body of this 100% alpaca cardigan from Fernando Cano in Peru. The sleeves and parts of the body feature a solid color in graphite that showcases intricate cable knit patterns. Coconut shell buttons close this lovely accessory, making a stylish statement during the cold months.

A classic and beautiful design, this elegant smoke grey poncho is presented by artisan Alfredo Falcon of Peru. The soft and warm garment is knit from 100% alpaca wool.