Ponchos, in the hands of a few artisans of Llangahua

Ecuadornews:

Jose Mazabanda manufactures three ponchos a week. “The red color is only used by the authorities of the community. We can wear the blue poncho that is characteristic of commoners.”

Weaving a garment takes between two and three days of work. Mazabanda also makes the ponchos for the inhabitants of Simiatug. He sells them on Wednesday’s fair. Each of these garments is sold between USD 40 and 60. “It all depends on the material and the quality of the garment, if it is lamb wool, the poncho costs USD 60, but if the wool is produced in factories the price is 40.”

The craftsman explains that children and young people no longer want to learn the techniques of weaving, that is why this activity is slowly lost in this town. “It is not a profitable activity and nobody wants to follow our steps. The authorities should teach this trade in schools so it does not get lost. We are willing to pass on that knowledge.” (I)

Source: http://www.elcomercio.com/tendencias/tejido-ponchos-artesanos-llangahua-intercultural.html