Mochila Wayuu One Color

The Wayúu are an indigenous people who live on the Guajira Peninsula, the most northeastern part of Colombia, bordering Venezuela. This matriarchal community has adapted to the harsh climate of a desert located in front of the Caribbean Sea.

Within the community, men are dedicated to raising sheep and goats, planting corn, making musical instruments such as drums, and sandals made from old tires. Meanwhile, women are dedicated to weaving hammocks for sleeping, mochilas or purses for women, and colorful blankets that highlight the Wayúu beauty.

The mochilas are the maximum expression of Wayúu weaving. They are easily recognizable by their colors and designs. The mochilas are made with crochet (a technique introduced by Catholic missionaries at the beginning of the 20th century) or with a hook, and the elaboration of each piece can take approximately 20 days.

The Wayúu spin wild cotton, maguey, aipis and other natural fibers native to the region. They twist cotton and industrial wool for fine fabrics, as well as the worn threads that they reuse in “second-hand” fabrics. Either “on the leg” or with the help of a spindle, the Wayúu twist and twist threads in an “S” or “Z” shape.