Handloom Woven in Peru.
Brightly colored and meticulously handwoven, our Kuskaya bags are truly "one-of-a-kind". By "one-of-a-kind", I mean that each handbag pattern is unique and will not be repeated. In an era of mass-produced goods with unknown origins, Kuskaya is truly a one-of-a-kind brand with a truly inspiring mission: to preserve Peru's tradition of master weavers while empowering women in remote communities.
Kuskaya means "working together" in Quechua, which is the founding concept of the brand. In the Andes, the principle of working together of the community is a moral code. In Qinti's role of being Kuskaya's distributor in the United States, I truly feel proud to be a part of Kuskaya's extended family. For the first time online, I am even more happy to extend that opportunity to you.
Ali’s fascination with Peruvian traditional textiles began as a child. As a Peruvian designer and businesswoman, Ali combined her love for textiles with her business background to create an innovative brand, one which not only helps preserve Cajamarca's rich tradition of textile artistry, but also economically empowers the local community of women who make up Kuskaya today.
Kuskaya’s cooperative goal is to preserve the region’s distinct weaving technique while providing the women of the village the opportunity to financially benefit from their masterful weaving skills.
The women weavers of the Kuskaya co-op. Wearing dresses typical to the region.
Doña Teonila and her daughter Karina.
The handmade textiles are an essential part of the economy as well a women's cultural identity. Techniques developed over millenia, passed down for generations.
Each region has its own distinct techniques which are at risk of being forgotten. At the same time, the women in this region do not benefit from their mastery and skill.
Karina is a master weaver, and the daughter of Doña Teonila (above). While the loom is simple, great complexity in design is achieved through extreme control exercised.
Through generations, textile traditions have evolved to include different fibers, dyes, and motifs. Kuskaya incorporates traditional textiles in bright colors to contemporary handbags for an international audience to enjoy.
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