Handmade Chambira Tote Bag from Peru

$29.99 $39.99

Description

Origin: Puerto Miguel, Peru

These unique pieces are sustainable and ethical. They’re handcrafted by women in the Peruvian Amazon, using chambira (large and spiny palm) fibers and  natural dyes that are sustainably harvested within the rainforest.

By buying this bag, you are not only carrying a unique and sustainable bag to carry your essential items but also providing a source of income to women artisans like Raquel in Peru.

    Care
    Chambira palm is very strong and durable. Cleaning your chambira product should be done by hand using cold water and a mild cleaning solution.
    Raquel Inuma of Puerto Miguel, Peru
    Raquel Inuma

    Artisan Profile

    Earlier in 2021, we met Raquel Inuma, who was born in the community of Puerto Miguel in the Peruvian Amazon. When she was 13-years-old, the Achuar people, who spend their time hand-making various products such as bags and baskets, came to live in a community nearby. Even though they did not teach Raquel this art, she learned it by observing them. 

    Making things by hand became Raquel’s passion and ever since she has been handcrafting products to support her family and community. Now she works with the community of women from Puerto Miguel, Peruvian Amazon, where they handcraft bags and baskets made from chambira (large and spiny palm) fibers, using natural dyes that are sustainably harvested within the rainforest. 

    Once we, Luna Sundara, met this community of women, saw the products, and learned about their long and difficult creation process, we knew immediately – these  baskets belong at Luna Sundara! 

    PRESERVING TRADITIONS

    Puerto Miguel, Peru • Peruvian Amazon

    In this small riverside town, the women gather together to create totes and baskets. Using a traditional technique that involves naturally dyed palm fibers called chambira, these women create wonderful products using only the materials and tools found in their local surrounding rainforest.

    Sustainable Dyeing Process

    Eco-Friendly Dye

    Raquel and her team make their own dye to color the palm fibers, or chambira, before making the totes and baskets. All of these dye are made using various plants found in their surrounding rainforest. Rich colors are extracted from these plants and make a perfect eco friendly dye for their products.