Frasada blankets were originally used in the Andes to curb the chill in the high altitudes. The sturdy, thick and warm blend of woven pieces really helped protect against the cold temperatures in the highlands. A Frasada Blanket can be dated back to the Pre-Columbian times and has persisted to the present times. Moreover, these blankets have gained immense traction in various parts of the world.
The art of weaving Frasada Blankets has been consistently passed down through subsequent generations and as it stands, it is considered an elemental skill which is learnt by many by their tenth birthday. The techniques, colors, patterns and styles of every piece is entirely unique and is a mirror image of a weaver’s creativity. Some of the woven pieces behold cultural significance and are a reflection of customary or lineage events like wedding ceremonies. The uniqueness of each piece is added advantage since a weaver can customize a blanket to suit one’s taste and preference.
Each Frasada Blanket is a hundred percent natural; nothing is synthetic at all. It is made from wool, either from sheep or alpaca, as well as natural dyes. The latter accords it some air of importance since most other blankets are synthetic. The process kicks off by shearing the sheep. The next step is to dye the fibers using natural dyes derived from fruits, roots, plants or insects. Afterwards, the fibers are spun the meticulously woven on a loom. These fibers are now ready to be used in the actual weaving process. The weaving itself begins with double the length of the completed blanket. The next step is to cut it in half and using a whip stitch, sew it up together. The entire weaving process approximately takes close to 4-6 weeks to reach completion.
The demeanor of frasadas is simply amazing. Their thick, soft, durable and vast range of colors put them at the top of the curve compared to their contemporaries. It is a ball of fire kind of a garment that can serve various purposes in home decor and design. They are frequently used in decor as rugs, nevertheless, they blend in perfectly as bed covers, wall hangings, throw blankets or picnic blankets.
In wrapping up, frasadas are charming when draped over a sofa or better still when tucked into the seat cushions as a convenient way of sprinkling some color and radiance into a room. Frasadas also make the perfect material for upholstery projects due to their durable nature.
