Sayama: Inspired by the Majestic Splendor of Mount Sajama in Bolivia

We set off to Sajama National Park on a llama-lovin' adventure, all in the name of creating a yarn made from llama hair. As we cruised through the park, soaking in the breathtaking views of Nevado Sajama and its surrounding landscapes, we couldn't help but wonder with delight at the sight of thousands of llamas and sheep frolicking about. Talk about llama drama! This llama extravaganza only fueled our excitement for creating a yarn that captures the essence of this magical place.

Mount Sajama (Nevado Sajama) is the highest peak in Bolivia, located in the southwestern part of the country near the border with Chile. It is part of the Andes mountain range and stands at an impressive elevation of 6,542 meters (21,463 feet) above sea level. Mount Sajama is an extinct stratovolcano and is considered one of the highest peaks in the world outside of the Himalayas. 

Long-necked, big-eyed, fluffy creatures, llamas have captured the hearts of many around the world. Belonging to the camelid family alongside alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos, llamas were domesticated around 6,000-7,000 years ago by pre-Columbian societies in the Andes Mountains, quickly becoming indispensable to Andean cultures. Used as pack animals, sources of meat, sacrifice, and fiber, llamas played a crucial role in the economy and trade of these societies.  

Llamas are social animals that live in herds, grazing on grasses and vegetation in the high-altitude grasslands. Encountering llamas in the wild or in the company of local herders is a common sight around Mount Sajama, adding to the unique and rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. In addition to their practical uses, llamas are also revered for their cultural significance. They play a role in traditional ceremonies and festivals, and their images often appear in Andean art and folklore.

Painting with Fibers: Sayama's Vibrant Color Story

Llama wool offers a rich array of natural hues, spanning from white to deep black. Our base blend combines the purity of white sheep wool with the softness of white llama fibers, accented by hints of brown llama for a touch of warmth and subtle mélange effect. This harmonious fusion of colors mirrors the breathtaking beauty of Mount Sajama in Bolivia, where nature's paintbrush sweeps across the landscape with a diverse spectrum of greens, blues, and turquoises. From the verdant high-altitude grasslands to the deep hues of glacial lakes, every shade tells a story of the Andes. Vibrant patches of wildflowers add bursts of red, yellow, and purple to the valleys, while the rocky slopes of the mountain exhibit earthy browns and grays, offset by the pristine white of snow-capped peaks.
Above it all, the clear skies of Mount Sajama showcase magnificent sunrises and sunsets, casting warm tones of orange, pink, and purple across the horizon.

Each shade tells a story, inspired by not only the stunning landscapes, but also by the traditional textiles, and the vibrant colors of local festivals. This thoughtful approach not only honors the natural beauty of Bolivia but also celebrates the craftsmanship of the artisans who preserve their cultural heritage through the art of weaving and dyeing. This natural symphony of colors is what has inspired the captivating color palette of Sayama. With every skein, we aim to bring a piece of Bolivia’s enchanting atmosphere to knitters around the world.

Tradition and Sustainability in Sayama 

Sayama also embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Aymara people. Traditionally, the Aymara maintain a strong spiritual connection to the land, mountains, and natural elements. Their cultural traditions revolve around rituals, ceremonies, music, dance, and folklore, often celebrating agricultural cycles, seasonal changes, and nature. Festivals like Pachamama (Mother Earth) and Inti Raymi (Sun Festival) are central, involving colorful processions, music, offerings, and communal feasting. Additionally, the Aymara practice sustainable agricultural techniques, reflecting their deep knowledge of the local environment. This ethos resonates with our philosophy, which is why we chose to produce Sayama yarn, honoring the profound connection between nature and culture in the region around Mount Sajama.

Where Ethical Excellence Meets Everyday Creativity

At Pascuali, we've always prioritized using the finest fibers available, resulting in products of unparalleled quality. However, we understand that this level of excellence can sometimes come with a higher price tag, limiting access for some customers. That's why we're excited to introduce Sayama, a yarn made with the same dedication to quality but at a more accessible price point. Despite its affordability, Sayama doesn't compromise on softness or durability. Its unique blend makes it ideal for creating Scandinavian-style fair-isle fabrics and vibrant, multicolored designs. Produced in Bolivia, at a factory nestled in the heart of El Alto, Sayama is Eco Text 100 certified.

Although llama wool does not currently have widespread ecological certifications, we take personal responsibility for ensuring the welfare of the animals involved in its production, upholding both quality and ethical standards. Paul Pascuali travels to farms and spinning mills around the globe to verify that their practices align with our commitment to sustainability and ethical production. We invite you to join him on his journey to Bolivia in this BLOG.