In 1972, Carmen (Car) and her friend Dora (Do), created CARDOLAN (lana is Spanish for “wool”), to promote the work of wool artisans in the region and offer needlecraft pieces for their friends and family.
The Hands Behind
the Art
Graciela, Cecilia, Mariela, Alicia, Rita, María, Delfina, Oliva, Flor, Marta Inés, Jaime, Marina, Matilde, Leonor, Silvia, Flor, Deisy, Miriam Yanet, Enrique and many others are all important artisans in our wool craft network.
From raising and shearing our sheep, to spinning, dyeing and weaving our wool, each person learned their craft from their mother. Today their art supports their families´ livelihood.
Our Founder:
Carmen
Although Carmen was born in the city of Bogota, she developed a passion for the Colombian countryside early in her life, and began working with sheep in the Simijaca valley.
On her long excursions along Andean trails, she learned about the local wool craft, passed down from generations, and she also realized the need for women in the region to earn additional income. She soon put these two observations into action, raised the first herd of Corriedale sheep, and organized a network of local women who knew how to spin and weave the wool in the traditional style.
The Legacy:
Luisa
After working 40 years in private and public education, Luisa moved to the Simijaca Valley full time, and reignited CARDOLAN. Luisa introduced the first Merino sheep to the herd and strengthened the network of regional wool workers.
Luisa envisioned an array of classically made and timelessly elegant hand-made throws, cushions and rugs, all using the original flat looms. We take pride and genuine joy in knowing that when we send you a piece from CARDOLAN, we are sending warmth from Luisa’s sheep right into your home.
