ABOUT ANDEANTRAMADO CROCHET
Unlike weaving on a cumbersome backstrap loom, Andean tramado crochet can be conveniently worked on just about anywhere. The earliest examples of this tighter, less bulky variant on traditional crochet dates back over 8000 years — to the earliest period of human occupation in the Americas.
THE ARTISANS AT WORK
Each piece is made by hand by Quechua and Mochica women across 3 regions of Northern Peru — Pacasmayo, Cajamarca and Huamachuco. Nine individual collectives comprise a team of 120 women, who work in the home or in community centers where they can care for young children and family while generating an income by practicing a traditional art form that’s been passed down from generation to generation
EMPOWERING ENTREPRENEURS
Working with Tropic of C provides the female artisan collectives with more than just employment — each collective is provided with computer literacy classes, an education on critical production skills that allow them to scale while maintaining size consistency, and guidance on becoming formal organizations, so that these artisans are able to bring their work to craft fairs. Classes in accounting and assistance in opening bank accounts increase economic agency for women at all levels of education.
TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
Meeting increased demand for these stunning designs not only keeps the art form of Andean tramado crochet alive — it’s also elevated the way these textiles are made. Through collaboration and skill sharing, the female artisans have made adaptations that allow for consistent, bulk production of one-of-a-kind textiles — a first of its kind.
MAKING MINDFULLY
The crocheted pieces included in our Alo x Tropic of C capsule collection reflect the values of both brands — to live mindfully, connect with air, land and ocean, and practice humankindness.
shop now
