SHIGRAS PAMPA

Shigras are handwoven bags made by Kichwa artisans using natural fibers, and they are characterized by their vibrant colors and distinctive geometric patterns. They are primarily used to carry belongings and are an important cultural symbol.

Historically, Shigras have been used by women in the mountains or jungle to carry food or seeds to the fields. Today, the ancestral tradition of weaving shigras is on the brink of extinction, because the weaving process is very difficult, time-consuming, and the labor is not fairly compensated.

The natural fibers we use for our Shigras come from the "cabuya" plant, also known as fique, penco, or agave; but the specific variety of this plant is only found in Ecuador. The manufacturing process is long and tedious, as the material must be beaten against the ground, soaked in water for several days, washed, shredded, boiled and dyed, dried, and finally woven with a small needle. The weaving is the longest part of the process and can take up to 16 weeks, and this is where creativity comes into play!