Chinchero Weaver
Item# i-7

The weaving that is found in Chinchero is totally different from any other weaving that you will find in South America. The weaving from here is unique in both design and color. The process of weaving begins with the raising and caring for the sheep. Next, the animals must be sheared and the wool spun. Last, the wool is dyed and then two strands of yarn are plyed into one. Finally, the weaving begins. The women featured in this website with the saucer-style hats are from the Kupir ayllu (clan) located in Chinchero. They share the same rich cultural identity, hair styles(tight braids), hometown, and history. The red saucer-style hats are called monteras, their dark skirts are called pulliras, and the cute red jackets are called jubones. The shawls that are draped over their shoulders are called llijllas and they are held together with weaving needles. Each of these sets of clothes look very similar, however they are unique in their own way because they are usually woven by the person watching them. The llijllas especially have their own individual designs.

Incan weaving has remained unchanged for 3,000 years. There are three types of looms. The Backstrap Loom is the most unusual. It is tied to a tree and then to the weavers back. The Horizontal Loom is stretched about a foot off the ground using wooden supports. The Vertical Loom is attached to a wall. They use alpaca wool to weave their clothing.