Wayuu artisans
At the north coast of Colombia, in South America, there is a special place called La Guajira.
La Guajira is mostly desert and there is two kind of people in these region: The Wayuus who are the native people and Alijunas who are literally all those who are not Wayuu.
The wayuu men are mainly shepherds. The women take care of the home, the children and they also are artisans. Their products are so high quality that they are very well know all around the world.
Wayuu artisans make mochilas, hammocks, bracelets, clutch, key chains, sandals, beach wrap dresses, tote bags, different kind of clothing and many more.
Their most popular product are the Wayuu Mochila Bags. The popularity of these bags helps them to maintain their villages.
Mochila Bags
Mochila Wayuu bags are Crossbody bucket bags made in 100% cotton handloom fabric and accented with delicate handwork.
Watch How to make a Mochila Bag
The body of the Mochila bag is made with Crochet Technic.
Watch inkle weaving Strap Technic
How to make hand weaving Strap
The straps are made using the inkle or hand weaving Technic.
Their shoulder straps sometimes in contrast, sometimes same color as the bags, adds to the aesthetics of the bag.
Watch how to make twisted cord and tassels
The drawstring is a thick handwoven closure embellished with heavy neon tassels or pompoms.
The dimensions of a Mochila Wayuu are 14 inches x 7 inches (Height x Diameter).
The circumference of the bag is 22 inches.
The shoulder strap is: 16 -20 inches long.
Watch how to decorate a mochila bag
With the purpose of adding a more variety of styles to this beautiful handwork, some artisans are introducing a new Technic of decorating the mochila bags with Crystal beads or embroidered appliques to attract a more extensive audience.
These art pieces made by Wayuu artisans are part of their tradition. Making a mochila bag could take up to 2 or 3 months and their unique designs can be considered invaluable, however, the reality is that they are often underpaid.
Written pattern with 32 pictures.
Available in English and Spanish.
Buy the written pattern with pictures step by step in PDF for $4.99
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