Hola! Hola! It’s time to explore some travel for crafty people. The perfect place for people who love to get out and explore the world, but also enjoy being creative. If you’re interested in one day visiting Perú or love making art with yarn – you’re going to love this place!
If you’re interested in more travel destinations with textiles to explore, check out our posts about Gamarra and the Indian Market.
Let’s get into it!
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Centro Textil Qhawarina
High in the Andes Mountains, amidst vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, lies Cusco, a city steeped in history and tradition. While Machu Picchu often steals the spotlight, there’s another treasure waiting to be discovered in this city: Centro Textil Qhawarina by Isaaleya
Centro Textil Qhawarina brings you an incredible experience to learn the art of making traditional textiles from the Chinchero district. Making this the perfect travel destination for crafty people.
A Tour of Peruvian Textiles
Embarking on this tour offers a unique glimpse into the Peruvian tradition of textile weaving. From the moment you step into their colorful workshop, you’re greeted by vibrant colors and many beautiful pieces.
The most fascinating aspect of the tour is witnessing the dying process firsthand. The Weavers of Chinchero proudly share their ancestral knowledge, passed down through generations. Demonstrating the natural dyeing techniques used to create vivid colors for their creations.
You get to see firsthand how they pull colors from bugs, as well as various plants and fruits. They explain the process for pulling purple hues from corn, and also greens from specific leaves. Each color and method for getting these bright tones tells a story of the land and its people.
They walk you through the process of materials they use. You also get to learn how they clean the wool and prepare it for making blankets, sweaters, and hats. The Weavers of Chinchero show some of their projects in the process of being woven. We saw a table runner with intricate designs and many beautiful colors.
Shopping Time!
After the tour concludes, they guide us to the marketplace, where a breathtaking array of handcrafted treasures awaits. While the allure of these beautifully crafted sweaters, blankets, and accessories is undeniable, there’s a subtle undercurrent of expectation to make a purchase. The prices, though noticeably higher than those found in the Indian Market in Lima, reflect the quality of the craftsmanship and the unique cultural heritage of each item.
Navigating the delicate balance between appreciation and affordability can be challenging, especially when faced with the pressure to buy. By supporting the Weavers of Chinchero, you’re not only investing in a beautifully crafted piece but also contributing to the preservation of a cherished tradition.
Final Thoughts
I wanted to share a helpful suggestion before we end this post. Consider timing your visit to coincide with a busier time of day. Our visit was just before closing, leaving us as the sole focus of attention. Visiting during peak hours alleviates the pressure of being the sole point of interest, allowing for a more relaxed browsing experience.
Remember to share your appreciation to the Weavers of Chinchero for the tour. I would encourage you to contribute in some way to show your support by purchasing something from the market.
As we finished the tour, we left with an appreciation for the art of yarn weaving and the natural dye process. Gaining a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry that is seen throughout much of Perú. I for one, have left mesmerized by all that I had learned that day.
What did you think of this travel for crafty people post? I hope you found Centro Textil Qhawarina as fascinating as I did! Did anything inspire you to one day visit Cusco, Perú? Tell me what you thought in the comments! Also, would you be interested in more travel for crafty people posts?
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- Remote Work Life in Perú: Introducing The Chickens
- How To Make A Kids Scrap Fabric Top: Design #3
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P.S. Looking for a fun activity to play while traveling to your next adventure? We put together a great freebie that you can play with your seatmate on a plane, train, or long bus ride, download your free trivia here.
Playing trivia is a great way to participate in fun activities with your friends and family, even when you’re 4,591 miles apart or constantly on the go. It helps you keep your long-distance relationships growing and is sure to provide lots of fun!
