Laura is the head of the women’s knitting association Textil Suri, based in southern Peru. For more than 15 years, she has guided and supported this collective of skilled female artisans, working to preserve a craft that has been passed down through generations.
At its peak, Textil Suri had more than 50 active members. Today, only 7 women remain. As demand for handmade goods has declined, many members have been forced to seek more stable income elsewhere. Yet Laura and her small team continue to hold the thread of tradition, committed to their work and to one another.
The group specialises in hand knitting and the use of manual knitting machines, working with a variety of natural fibres including Alpaca, cotton and blends. Their techniques are as diverse as the materials they use, blending time-honoured skill with creative adaptability to produce knitwear that is both beautiful and functional.
Laura is not only a leader but a mentor. She supports younger women in the community to learn the craft, and is passionate about keeping this art form alive in the face of growing challenges. Her leadership is rooted in resilience, community, and a quiet belief in the value of handmade work.
At La Sierra, we are honoured to work with Textil Suri. Through our partnership, we hope to bring greater visibility to their work, expanding their reach and offering consistent, meaningful income. By championing their artistry, we aim to help rebuild this association and ensure that their knowledge is not lost, but carried forward with pride.