I hope this blog finds you well. I wanted to introduce you to the vibrant world of Bolivian weaving!
Passed down through generations, these artistic methods intertwine history and culture, creating breathtaking textiles rich in symbolism and beauty.
As a gift to you, our faithful Ally, we wanted to share a video that will teach you how to bring this lovely Bolivian craft to your home.
You will need:
- One 12” x 12” piece of cardboard
- Scissors
- Yarn
Many of the kids who attend our Children and Family Centers learn this technique and often their parents build their weaving skills into small businesses.
So, join our friends in Bolivia as you try your hand at the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that tell stories of Bolivian heritage.
Grab your kids or a friend and watch this video:
Weaving, Macrame and Alpaca Scarves in El Alto, Bolivia
On my recent trip to Bolivia, I met a group of amazing women who started a business making llama scarves and shawls. But they don’t only create beautiful fabrics together, they worship as sisters in Christ at one of Bright Hope’s partner churches in El Alto.
I watched as the older ladies passed their wisdom and skills on to the next generation of Bolivian artists— artists like Doris and Juanio.
Doris explained: “I learned the Bolivian style of macramé that came from the Spanish colonial period from the Bolivian women who adopted them as their own. My mom used to weave using other yarn but not alpaca. Now that I can do what my mother did, I can improve my family’s income as a mom with three kids! This is so important for women in El Alto who can only make low incomes. Knowing you came from so far to appreciate our work is such a blessing.”
Juanio shared: “As a child I used to weave the ends of my mom’s skirt because I love the work. I really wanted to learn how to weave but I hadn’t found a way until now. I found this group of women at this church on social media and joined so I could learn. Soon, I will teach my daughter to weave!”
Thank you for Supporting Bolivian Weaving!
Thank you for investing your prayers and gifts in God’s work among the extreme poor. We pray God’s blessing on you and your family as you experience the beauty of this Bolivian weaving craft!
