Lima, 
"I'm Wilber Calapuja Marron and I was born in Puno where my mother knitted sweaters to sell. I’m a very happy, hard-working, punctual and honest person. I decided to come to Lima to live with a relative to study auto mechanics, then computers and, later, coding.
"One day, a friend offered me a job in a workshop where they knitted sweaters and that's where my interest and passion for developing and knitting sweaters was awakened. In my work experience, I learned to knit, then design and develop different kinds of sweaters, and also learned a great deal about manual and electronic machines. Eventually, I was ready to set up my own workshop.
"When I first ventured out on my own, there were some difficult moments, but each obstacle I overcame motivated me to keep going forward. The toughest part was not having enough money. I worried about finding customers because I needed more work for my collaborators and, fortunately, the people who assist me always supported me. They'd cheer me up with their jokes and, when I would stop by to see how the work was going, I'd always leave smiling.
"Designing is the first step in the process, which is done on the computer. Next, we select the materials, such as alpaca. Finally, we knit them. I enjoy being able to innovate our designs, knitting and use of materials. I don't find it difficult – one just needs creativity and a lot of patience.
"My designs begin as an idea that I quickly capture on paper. I work with my wife and we both spend almost 14 hours a day in the workshop and have weekly meetings to organize the work. It's a challenging job, but very satisfying.
"One of our greatest challenges is competition, which is why I want to increase sales and provide more work to the people around me. As a child, I wanted to work on my own and I've finally achieved this. You have given me the opportunity to continue growing by showing our designs to the world."
Striped Alpaca Blend Long Sleeve V-Neck Duster Cardigan 'Mesa Sunrise'
$149.99
(2)
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1 more comment
Beatrice I love the cardigan and the color combination. I first got the jumper and also loved it, so I also got the cardigan. Perfect also for colder summer nights.
Cable Knit Baby Alpaca Blend Pullover in Ivory from Peru 'Warm Charm'
$129.99
(3)
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L
2 more comments
Lynda I am so pleased. It's absolutely beautiful. Light weight, warm and soft. Love the weave; almost like a lovely lace. I am 5, 10, normally wear a medium but decided on a large for sleeve length. Soo happy I did. It fits beautifully, long in sleeves and a nice relaxed fit and length overall. Absolutely amazing purchase. I hope to wear it for many years to come.
Red Alpaca Wool Cardigan with White Glyph Stars from Peru 'Glyph Stars'
$199.99
(6)
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5 more comments
Dawn Beautiful sweater! I am very pleased with the colors and artistry of this alpaca sweater. Wonderful handiwork by this artisan!!!
Charcoal Alpaca Tunic Sweater Dress 'Long Lines in Charcoal'
$219.99
(2)
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1 more comment
Sandra I love this sweater it is very comfortable to ware. I have been looking for a dark gray sweater for a very long time. Very happy with my purchase.
Baby Alpaca Teal Cable Knit Tunic Sweater Dress 'Winter Teal'
$219.99
(3)
Comments
L
2 more comments
Linda This sweater is stunning, well-made and of exceptional quality. I intend to get all the colors and hope more colors will be made. Thank you!
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