is a fun technique that allows use of two or more colors. It yields a sturdy cloth great for bags, tapestries and such. I don't know exactly when and how I learned to do it. I do know it was in Colombia. The above is a little bag I made out of hand spun yarn I had sitting around. The kitties are a pattern from one of Carol's websites.
Carol Ventura has done lots of research on it and has three fun books about it. Single crochet is the basic stitch with one working yarn and one carried strand.
A couple of native Colombian tribes still use it for everyday wear.
The Tairona population is one. They use wool and wool products to weave and crochet.
The natives from the "Isla de San Andres" also use tapestry crochet to make colorful hats and bags. They are more of a Central American culture, even though the island is Colombian territory they are closer to Guatemala so the cultural influence is greater from that country.
Colombia is a country of great contrasts. You will find an important percentage of the population with European influence and several native tribes that keep their culture and traditions alive. Both Atlantic and Pacific coasts have a higher percentage of descendants from African immigrants who also maintain their traditions alive.
As a consequence crafts are also influenced by ancestry. From exquisite embroidery and lace to back strap loom weaving.
You might be wondering why I am coming up with posts like this. It is just that it amazes me on how much information is found on textiles and art from other South and Central American countries. Colombia is always missing. My family comes from European ancestry therefore my knowledge on native techniques is limited to what I was able to extract from places I visited while I lived there.
I learned to spin and weave in the USA, knitting, crochet and tatting was what I brought with me.
For a long time now I have been wanting to compile information on textiles and crafts in Colombia. I will try to remember as much as I can and will find links for you to enjoy.
One thing you will find for sure in Colombia is color!
3 comments:
Hola Laritza.
Gracias por tus palabras amables.
Es un gusto conocerte. En que parte de los EEUU vives?
Que bonito el crochet tapestry (en español?) ¿Se usa un gancho largo parecido a aguja de tejer malla para hacerlo o una aguja de crochet convencional?
Me gustaria aprender. Me acuerdo de tantos mochilas bonitas.
Es necesario mas informacion sobre los textiles colombianas, especialmente los tradicionales y de origen folclorico.
Suerte!
Y si te gusta los podcasts sobre el tejer, puedes encontrar el mio en stitchstud.podbean.com
Chao
Nice kitties! Thanks for tapestry crocheting link. I have never done tapestry crocheting, must try some day.
I love this post! So much info. With all the yarn I have left over from my bag I'd like to try some tapestry crochet. I may be calling you for help!
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