Threads of Peru is thrilled to announce the launch of two brand new weaving tours for 2017! After many requests from weavers, crafters and culture enthusiasts we have put our heads together for hands down the best two weaving tours that you will find! with unique relationships to weaving communities Threads of Peru offers unparalleled insights into the world of weaving and the lives of Quechua weavers. For an overview of our Tours offering http://threadsofperu.com/pages/visit-peru
Threads of Peru’s line of alpaca ponchos, part of our Quechua Collection are rooted in Andean culture and steeped in history. The Andean poncho is a traditional item of Andean dress that may date back to some of the earliest pre-Incan cultures. The poncho is composed of two rectangular pieces of fabric woven on the backstrap loom, each piece the width of the weaver’s body. The two pieces are subsequently sewn together, leaving an opening in the middle of the seam for the head to pass through. When worn, the poncho covers most of the upper body, protecting one from the cold, while still allowing free movement of the hands and arms.
In late 2012, I was on the lookout for another weaving association to add to our growing network. On a routine trip out to Ollantaytambo on public transit, I happened to notice a sign advertising an upcoming artisan fair that would be held just outside Chinchero. "Amazing!," I thought. "Perfect place to meet some new weavers."
