How I started to sell the Bolivian crafts

I always wanted to have my own business. When my children were babies I used to make some wooden English ducks for children, but these were difficult to make and sell.

I missed my own country a lot when I first came here, but selling my Bolivian crafts has made me happier because I know that many people respect my culture and its crafts and traditions.

I have always enjoyed learning about Britain and its people but I have also been proud to share my own culture with people here.  I like to notice the things we have in common and I enjoy those details that makes us different.  By sharing something of my own culture I believe we can show that we care for each other.

When I went to see my family in Bolivia in 2003, my sister lent me money to bring back some crafts made in Bolivia such as finger puppets and leather bags. These I sold mainly in York market (although I lived in Leeds at the time) because I thought tourists were more likely to buy the products. Then slowly I brought more items.

The handmade leather and wool objects come from traditional weaving that has been passed on through generations by different indigenous communities in my country. The wool used comes from llama and alpaca, domesticated animals reared in the Andes. The weaving and jewellery designs use ancient symbols such as the sun, the rain, the moon – they are considered deities and have been worshipped since ancient times; mountains, mother earth, birds, other animals, geometric designs: they all having deeper meanings rather than just being beautiful designs.

What is my aim?

To bring to the UK high quality products at reasonable prices, thereby promoting cultural continuity, respect and value for the creativity and workmanship of the weavers and other artisans.
 
In this way customers can buy hand-made products at reasonable prices while the producers can continue in business using their traditional skills.

My work is only possible because of the support of my family and other people in Bolivia and York. This website would not be possible without help from the York and North Yorkshire Chambers of Trade and the Women in Enterprise initiative.