Mochilas
A mochila is a hand woven bag (usually) made by women of the various indigenous tribes across Colombia. The different styles of bags are representative of the diverse regions of the country, and the mosaic of indigenous tribes that reside in Colombia. As an example, the bags made by the Wayuu of the Guajira region of known for their vibrant colours and intricate designs. They are usually made from nylon fibre or cotton thread. From La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the mochilas made by the Kogi are more naturally hued, with whites, browns, oranges and yellows, and simple striped designs. They are usually made from fique thread, a natural plant fibre. Arhuaco bags, on the other hand, are often made from cotton, and with geometric black and white designs. With careful observation (or by asking a craft salesperson) one can learn distinguish to the different patterns of the different tribes.
Choosing a Mochila
Mochilas are as diverse as the weavers who make them, ranging in size, shape, colour, and design. Purchasing a mochila is an intuitive experience, but one should also consider practicality and purpose when deciding on size or shape. The bags are very sturdy and stretch to accommodate the objects being carried. In modern usage, they are used as handbags, but traditionally they served as more of a ‘daypack’ for travel, often being worn with two bags, one hanging over each shoulder, to carry items across long distance. Modern versions of the mochila are also being made, but there is no shortage of these beautiful bags being made by the indigenous of Colombia (in fact, weaving is an activity almost secondary to breathing).
Hammocks
Nothing says Latin America like the hammock. Imagine spending lazy days by the Caribbean coast, hanging with the ocean breeze. Or, after a long day’s hike into the glorious jungle, be relieved to find a hammock for rent for the night. Like mochilas, hammocks come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colours, and functions. They are also differentiated by the region where they were made, so you may want to purchase a hammock made in the area where you visited.
Choosing a Hammock
There are one-person and two-person hammocks, so consider wisely whether you might want to share your hammock with a beloved (a lovely experience, if a little awkward at first). Many hammocks are hand woven, but they are also being made by machine these days. Ask your sales person to tell you more about where the hammock comes from, and whether it is hand or machine made. Take a good look at stitching to ensure the material is strongly woven for durability (unless you just want something simple to hang in the back yard for the occasional summer swing). Unfold the hammock to get a good sense of its size and shape, and consider where you will likely hang your hang your hammock at home. Use your intuition to find the craft item that is perfectly suited to you, and you will be grateful later when your home is graced with a souvenir that reflects the spirit of your travel experience.
If you are in Bogota in December, the expoartisania is an essential stop for your souvenir shopping.
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