woolen poncho

Raquel and Gregor of the Andes, weave colorful yarns on a pedal loom to create this glorious poncho. The soft alpaca blend combines a rainbow of colors with dominant purple and pink hues.

The perfect combination of techniques used to handcraft this exquisite poncho is what makes it a standout and a must-have accessory. Designed by Peru’s Raquel and Gregor, the beautiful poncho is made from a soft baby alpaca blend using the knitting technique for the black body and the weaving technique for the colorful marigold and ash grey striped accents on the cowl neck and hem. Dazzle with this extraordinary design that is sure to elevate any outfit.

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.

Working in baby alpaca — the fine fleece from the season's first shearing — the artisans of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco create a handwoven masterpiece. Rows of intricate geometric motifs flow across the ruby red poncho. Its soft allure is woven by hand on the backstrap loom using colors favored by ancient Andean cultures. Its name reveals its inspiration in the small Inca community of Sallac.

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.

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.

Warm shades of brown, grey and ivory evoke Andean fields in Autumn. Working in luxurious alpaca, Faustino Maldonado creates a men's poncho with wide bands of earthen colors. The warm but lightweight garment is woven by hand on a traditional loom.

The magnificent essence of the Peruvian littoral transforms into a dapper garment thanks to Celinda Jaco's exquisite talent. The artisan uses alpaca blend yarns to loom this navy poncho, accented with stripes at the bottom for a gallant look. Soft and practical, the piece is ideal for a winter day.