The Art of Wool

We were able to watch a demonstration by the
local people on how they make wool from
the alpaca.  Here, she is washing the wool.

She is separating and washing

Once it is dry, they begin to spin it
into thread



Then the wool is dyed, using natural dyes from
plants, vegetables, and leaves

Here they were showing us all the different
colors that they are able to make

They dye it in hot water over the fire

These leaves make green...

These make purple

And then they weave it into beautiful wall pieces,
purses, rugs, etc

We watched this demonstration in a small village
outside of Cusco.  It was fascinating.  They are still
using the methods they have used for hundreds of
years.  Amazing!

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