The Master Weaver collection seeks to recognize the exceptional skill of outstanding members of the Threads of Peru family. These men and women master weavers are leaders in not only their home weaving associations, but in their wider communities - educating, guiding and encouraging the continued practice of ancient weaving techniques. Their work is unparalleled, the result of decades of practice, love, and appreciation for traditional Quechua textiles.
Daniel Sonqo
Daniel Sonqo (sonqo means “heart” in Quechua) is an experienced weaver from the community of Parobamba, high up in the mountains in an area referred to in Spanish as the “eyebrows of the jungle”.
He has been weaving since childhood and attributes his early interest in the art of weaving to his mother. Daniel began to sell his work in 1990 after the political climate in Peru became more stable. His work is highly regarded and well-known in the Cusco region.
Daniel says that he tries to conduct all of his work with honor and is dedicated to sharing his knowledge to improve the weaving techniques in other communities. Daniel is extremely passionate about natural dyeing techniques and hopes to one day share his knowledge by writing a book.
Andres Sallo
Originally from the highland community of Concani, Andrés first learned to weave at the age of 12, from his mother. Initially, the family wove for their own personal use. But at the age of 18, and after winning a weaving and spinning contest, Andrés began selling his weavings.
He is now 42 years old, with four daughters, all of whom he is teaching to weave. He and his sister both participate in the weaving association in his adopted community of Huaran, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, where he leads and guides the rest of the cooperative in order to pass on his skills and knowledge to empower still more master weavers.
Andres is an innovator continuously honing his craft, developing new product ideas and new color and design combinations. He is committed to the exclusive use of natural materials, including natural dyes.
Angela Milo Huallpa
Angela lives in the small community of Totora on the route towards the Lares hot springs, although she originally hails from the province of Paucartambo, a region renowned for their alpaca textiles.
Angela started weaving when she was just 10 years old, and had mastered the craft by the time she was 15. She moved to Totora when she got married and is raising two children of her own. She also recently adopted a young girl from Paucartambo whose family was unable to take care of her. Both of her two older children, a boy and a girl, are learning to weave.
Angela comes from a family of master weavers: she was taught how to weave by her mother, and her mother, in turn, learned from Angela’s grandmother. She raises a herd of about 30 alpacas, and spins her own wool. Her spinning is so fine that it is on par with machine-spun yarn! The result is work that is of unmatched quality. Angela enjoys weaving, particularly the creative element that comes with designing a finished product, and creating the pallays, or woven designs.