Exploring Ancestral Art: The Secrets Behind the Andean Textiles of Chinchero

Dive into a fascinating journey through time and uncover the mysteries behind the exquisite Andean textiles of Chinchero. In this land of wonders located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, textile art becomes an expression of tradition, skill, and a deep connection with nature.

At Fiandina, we take pride in honoring and preserving this tradition, sharing the passion and love that Peruvian artisans have woven into every thread, and bringing a piece of the heart of Chinchero to every corner of the world.

It all begins with the collection of wool, sourced from noble Andean creatures such as sheep, llamas, and alpacas. Following a centuries-old tradition, this wool undergoes a meticulous washing process using warm water and a plant called "saqta," which acts as a natural detergent. This ritual takes place in clay bowls, respecting ancestral customs that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Spinning

Spinning is truly a work of art in itself, where the skill of the artisans unfolds as they use a simple spindle called "pushca," transforming the wool into fine and durable threads. This process connects expert hands and creates a special bond with each strand.

Dyeing

But the real magic lies in the dyeing process.

Chinchero stands as one of the few places in the world capable of achieving an almost infinite palette of hues using only natural dyes. Exotic plants like kimsak’uchu, the retama flower, and kinsa kucho become sources of vibrant pigments, bringing colors like blue, yellow, green, and red to life. Here, ancestral knowledge comes alive in an astonishing way: to ensure the dyes adhere to the fabric, the urine of children under 2 years old is used, a technique that transcends time and highlights the connection between tradition and nature.

Wool

Finally, the threads woven with love and skill become wool yarns that are placed on looms. It is at this moment that one of the most remarkable events in the city of the Rainbow, as Chinchero is known, takes place. The dance of colors and patterns begins to come alive in every weft and warp, weaving stories and traditions that have withstood the test of time.