From boldly-patterned knit ponchos and bright, intricate weaves to chullo hats of soft alpaca wool and cooking aprons covered in Incan prints, the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco offers a kaleidoscope of textiles that you can buy.
You can also watch demonstrations of the techniques of preparing, dyeing, and weaving the wool by skilled local weavers. This offers a unique insight into how the intricate designs are created, and the ladies are happy to share their inspirations behind the various patterns and color combinations, explaining how each Andean town has developed its own distinctive designs.
You can take photographs of the weavers at work and the stunning fabrics.
Though you can buy textiles throughout Cusco, you can feel assured that the items you buy here are contributing to a good cause.
You can opt to volunteer at the center and help on projects designed to keep the ancient weaving processes alive—contact them directly for more details.
The center is located in the San Blas district of Cusco—from the central square of Plaza de Armas, it’s only a 10-minute stroll via Avenida el Sol. The center is just a couple of minutes from the Qorikancha ruins, a useful point of navigation on your way there.
The center is open throughout the year from Monday through Saturday, and closed on Sundays. It’s open from early morning until early evening, and there’s no admission charge for the center.
Characterized by steep cobblestone streets and a plethora of artists, weavers, and sculptors, the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas is a must-see during your time in Cusco. Know as the “Balcony of Cusco” due to the stunning vistas you can see from almost any angle, the barrio is also home to San Blas Church—one of the oldest in the ancient Inca city.
