Spiral Accent Baby Alpaca Wrap Scarf in Cerise from Peru - Spiral Magic in Cerise

Artisan Organization: Helen Haman

Country: Mexico

I was born in Lima in 1954. I consider myself to be super creative and hardworking.

Although my life has had some difficult moments, I've overcome them and they've made me stronger. My brother died at 17 in a traffic accident and a few years later, my mother died from pancreatic cancer. Both died too soon and were taken too quickly. These experiences were devastating for me and changed my life. I had to question my priorities and the meaning of life. Today, I've come to understand that the most important things are life, freedom and the ability to go after my dreams and desires.

"I'm always studying, reading, practicing and correcting my mistakes to be able to succeed at what I do and improve the quality of my apparel.

"My mother and grandmother taught me the basics of knitting and crocheting. I taught myself the rest by learning new techniques and challenging myself every day to try new methods.

"One of my dreams is to set up an organization to train women and their children in remote communities to achieve their own dreams.

"When I was only 23 years old, I set out on my independent career. I was always attracted by knitting, textures and colors. I saw the potential we have here in Peru and wanted to share our rich textile legacy.

"My goal is not only to teach my collaborators to knit, but also to teach them other skills like basic budgeting, health, education and running a workshop of their own.

"I use natural fibers and occasionally use two or more kinds together. Using new threads is always a challenge. I have to make samples and it's fun to see the results because they surprise me and I discover something new.

"The most difficult part of the entire process is knitting by hand, but this is what makes each piece unique.""