Peru’s Sacred Valley is a hot spot for authentic textiles – and the locals know it. I’ve been literally chased down many times by vendors eager to make a sale. (That kind of persistence usually works on me!) The handwoven textiles offered by Tessera embody ancient techniques, natural dyes and are largely composed of handspun sheep, alpaca and llama fibers.

Chinchero Fabrics

North of Cusco, in the sacred valley, the city of Chinchero was once the last estate of the Incan emperors. Known as the “birthplace of the rainbow,” Chinchero is still home to an active community of woman weavers, supported by the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC). Much more than a place to shop and explore, for me, villages like Chinchero are living attractions, where 2,000-year-old Andean weaving traditions are still going strong.

Featured product ::

Chinchero Fabric Pillow

Chinchero Fabric Swathes – for rugs, runners or hangings

Undersized Garments

If there’s such a size as XXXS, the Peruvians may have come up with it first. Prototypes? Weaving exercises? Doll clothing? The purpose of these miniature garments is not completely known, which means you can decide for yourself. Several styles are mounted and ready for framing.