handcrafted

Working in luxurious alpaca wool, Faustino Maldonado creates a handsome hooded cloak for men. The warm but lightweight garment is based on the traditional poncho. Buttons crafted from dried mate gourds secure each side.

The artisan includes a spare button.

Its vibrant fuchsia, lilac, Prussian blue and white shades are the distinctive characteristics of this soft and fashionable alpaca scarf handcrafted in Peru. Using traditional looms, the Ulloa family expertly weaves this colorful accessory that is the perfect complement to add a pop of color to any ensemble.

Inca-inspired patterns add unique charm to this handcrafted 100% alpaca shoulder bag. The artisans of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco start from scratch to create it--raising the alpacas and llamas to obtain the fleece; shearing, dyeing and spinning the wool; and weaving the textile on a traditional waist loom. The fully-lined bag closes with a zipper and features an interior zipper pocket.

Alluring and captivating, this lively poncho showcases a perfect fusion of handcrafted techniques. The crimson body, knitted from a soft baby alpaca blend, exudes sophistication, while the vibrant striped accents on the cowl neck and hem, hand-woven with precision, add a pop of color and charm. Embrace the allure of this exceptional design by Peru’s Raquel and Gregor and prepare to make a style statement like no other.

Handcrafted by artisan Sebastian Alayna Condere, this crocheted chullo hat showcases traditional llama patterns that honor the Peruvian highlands' most cherished creatures, all rendered in a sumptuous alpaca blend that feels as luxurious as it performs. The signature ear flaps with their playful pompom ties keep you warm on windswept days, while the topknot tassel bounces with personality and purpose. Every stitch carries the story of the Andes, bringing authentic mountain heritage to your everyday adventures, whether you're navigating city streets or genuine terrain.

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.