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our artisans

The Weavers of Sandoná

Location

Nestled among the emerald slopes of the Colombian Andes, Sandoná rests like a well-kept secret in the heart of Nariño. Wrapped in misty mornings and warmed by golden afternoon sun, this little town thrives surrounded by mountains that seem to hum with tradition. Coffee fields, sugarcane, and guadua sway gently in the breeze, while brightly colored houses dot the hillsides like scattered jewels.

History

The craft heritage of Sandoná has deep roots, stretching back generations to when local families first began transforming the gifts of their land into objects of beauty. Working with native materials like iraca palm, artisans developed intricate weaving techniques that became a source of pride and identity for the community. Over time, these humble, utilitarian creations evolved into refined works of art — hats, baskets, and decorative pieces loved throughout Colombia and beyond.

Materials

The traditional crafts of Sandoná are primarily made from iraca palm, valued for its strength, flexibility, and natural beauty. The fibres can be dyed with plant-based pigments to create a range of earthy and vibrant colors, and sometimes artisans incorporate threads or small decorative accents, but the heart of the craft remains the iraca palm itself.

The Process

Artisans harvest the young leaves, carefully strip them into fine fibres, and then cure them — often by boiling — to strengthen them and make them pliable for weaving. Natural dyes from local plants or seeds are used to add color, producing soft earth tones and vibrant hues that highlight the intricate weaving patterns. Occasionally, additional materials like threads or small decorative accents may be added, but the focus remains on the natural beauty, durability, and flexibility of the iraca fibres.

Sandona Today

Today, the spirit of Sandoná’s ancestors lives on in every strand of iraca, in every pattern that reflects both tradition and innovation. What began as a way of life has grown into a celebrated cultural legacy — one that continues to flourish in the hands of its skilled weavers.