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Andean Duality - Alpaca Blend Reversible Poncho in Grey and Black

Andean Duality - Alpaca Blend Reversible Poncho in Grey and Black

“When I was a little girl I loved playing at having a trade and I enjoyed making things with my hands. Now as a grownup I get to do it for real!"


On those cold winter days, there is nothing better than a comfortable poncho. Peruvian artisan Celinda Jaco crafts the design from alpaca blend, adding softness to the garment. It is reversible: one side is in a solid grey and the other in a versatile black.

Since she was a child, Celinda loved to play with weaving materials, imagining making her own designs. Now she fulfills her childhood dreams by bringing us charming creations.

  • 1.5 lbs
  • 67" L x 55" W
  • 50% alpaca, 45% acrylic, 5% wool
  • Dry clean only
  • Textile softness: Soft -- this item has been made with natural fibers that are soft to the touch
  • Made in Peru, ships from California 

 

Celinda Jaco

Alpaca apparel

"I was born in the beautiful department of Cerro de Pasco but, when I was five years old, I went to live in Lima with my godmother while my parents continued working as farmers in my hometown. I studied up to second year in middle school and then my love for textiles took over as I took courses in tailoring, knitting, crochet, toy-making and appliqué.

"I began working in a project with mothers who also wanted to learn about making toys, knitting and crochet. I worked in a variety of things, from bringing over things from Chile to sell in Peru to opening my own shop to sell sweaters, but that didn't work. In 2002 I started knitting informally but, thanks to the advice of my husband and children who specialize in textiles, I've been able to establish my own venture. I am constantly taking courses to hone my skills and develop further.

"Life is full of surprises, good and bad. I remember that once, back when I used to travel the countryside to sell different things, a taxi driver took off with everything after I had finished loading the car and before I had the chance to get in. I took another cab trying to catch up, but we never made it. However, one of my clients saw everything and identified the taxi.

"I thought I had lost everything, when this client called me and asked me to meet him at his house and as I walked in, I was amazed to see all of my merchandise there! I was so grateful to God and to this client!

"When I was a little girl I loved playing at having a trade and I enjoyed making things with my hands. Now as a grownup, I get to do it for real!

"My art comes from a combination of skill and creativity. I combine flat knitting with hand-embroidered details. It is very inspiring and motivating to create items that are different to what everybody else is doing. I've exhibited my creations in different fashion shows and fairs throughout Peru.

"The biggest goal I had set for myself was to be recognized, and I'm achieving it. I am so excited about having a chance to meet you all. I hope you like my designs and appreciate the fact each one is made with much dedication, effort, and love for this art. Thank you for trusting in me!"

Regular price $111.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $111.00 USD
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