Artisan Profile:

Allpa has 80 small to midsize workshops located throughout Peru. Through their textile production, they strive to create awareness and preserve Peruvian culture. Allpa develops annual collections according to market trends and supports the growth of artisans with technical assistance, training, and loans. This transforms weavers into entrepreneurs and gives them access to the global marketplace.

In the earliest Peruvian history, you will find examples of the bond between the Incas and alpacas. During the Inca empire, alpaca was only used by royalty because it was valued as the finest material. Alpaca is supple and smooth to the touch. It’s softer than cashmere and warmer and stronger than lamb’s wool. It contains microscopic air pockets which create lightweight clothing with excellent insulating properties. It is a completely natural fiber and there is no use of harsh chemicals in production.

The alpaca lives mostly without any boundaries in the highlands of the Peruvian Andes and are not harmed during the shearing process. Their soft padded feet are gentle on the grass terrain and they graze without destroying the root system of the area. Alpaca is the only animal that produces up to 28 natural colors and can be blended into an infinite array of natural shades from inky black to warm chestnuts and snowy white. It is easily dyed in any color and always retains its natural luster.