Elisabeth and Ricky Vazquez were getting the itch to travel again and bring back a new collection to the store. Their travels took them to Lima, Peru where they scoured the city for providers of quality, handcrafted furniture with a colonial style. Unfortunately, the furniture that they found in Lima was not aligned with The Rustic Gallery’s standards and was either lacking in quality or originality.
The real treasures were found as they continued their journey outside of Lima further south to Arequipa.
It was in Arequipa where they fell in love with the amazing handwoven textiles. The textiles featured the cultural patterns and intricate wool weavings of the Peruvian crafters. The textiles are all completely natural made with alpaca wool and all-natural dyes. The dyes are produced using various plants, flowers and even insects!
The families raise and care for the alpacas and typically shear them once a year. Alpaca wool is much softer and luxurious than sheep’s wool. It is not only stronger but warmer than sheep’s wool and is naturally hypoallergenic.
The families who handcrafted the textiles that Elisabeth and Ricky met on their journey soon became their good friends.
Of course, the trip wouldn’t be complete without a venture to the breathtaking landscape of Machu Picchu!
Elisabeth and Ricky brought back a variety of amazing textiles (panchos, table runners, throws, etc.) which have all sold out since. They plan to go back to Peru to bring back more of these treasures!
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