Group dyeing yarn using the cochineal beetle. This beetle in central to dyeing techniques in this part of the world. It produces colors from pink to red-orange to a deep burgundy red.
Man wearing traditional vest and knitting chullo. Knitting is practiced mostly by women, but by both men and women in some communities.
Woman spinning thread on her phusca, or drop spindle. Spinning is done by most in these villages, especially those unable to weave because of extreme youth or old age. All photos from the book "Weaving in the Peruvian Highlands" by Nilda Callañuapa Alvarez
OMG, so absolutely fabulous. Totally jealous of anyone who gets to wear these clothes on a daily basis. I am just ready to rip an item of clothing off from each wearer. I would coordinate them with my skinny jeans and tromp down the mean streets of New York City. There I would shock and awe all with the wondrous creations I'd be wearing. These are from a book I got for Christmas (thank-you Marina!) . If you knew the work each person put into each textiles you would never take a piece of cloth lightly again.
It's interesting that the women dying yarn are dressed the same. Does the dress indicate status or trade?
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