Knit Alpaca Blend Pullover in Graphite from Peru, "Beautiful Warmth in Graphite"

"I'm Santos Ricardo Cano Lopez. I was born in the department of Ancash, which is known as the 'Mirror of the Sky' due to its clouds, lakes, valleys, and beaches, as well as its flora and fauna. I consider myself a respectful, responsible, and hardworking man. I grew up surrounded by magical places, but it was also very hard to get ahead as a family. Every day, my parents would leave the house very early to work. There were good days and bad days. As I continued to grow up, our situation became even more complicated. It was then that I traveled to the capital in search of a better future and better opportunities. This is how I embarked on a voyage filled with uncertainty, with the hope of solving my problems and helping my family.

"I became interested in knitting because I was always fascinated by the textile crafts in the stores, and I asked myself if I could create something like it one day. This is how, with a lot of effort, I was able to get involved with a company dedicated to this craft. Although it took a lot of hard work, I was able to acquire valuable knowledge, such as the processing of alpaca wool and identifying its qualities in order to use it to create garments as works of art.

"During the years that I've been working since I made the decision to follow my dreams, nobody told me that it would be easy. But, if I didn't take a risk, I would not be able to achieve my dreams. I had to put all of my strength, discipline, and perseverance through trial and error, and that is how you learn in life.

"What I love the most about textile art is the versatility of the designs. I believe that there are infinite possibilities in creating and combining colors with textures in order to complete each piece. My main source of inspiration will always be my family. Seeing them happy and growing up alongside me will always be my main strength.

"Speaking of my plans, desires, and dreams for the future, I shouldn't forget to mention my dream of being able to increase the size of my workshop and improve it, develop unique designs, and gain renown — not only locally but also at the international level so that my designs are favorites with shoppers and that they feel this art carries a small piece of our beautiful Peru.

"I am very happy to have this incredible opportunity to introduce my craft to a new market. I feel very happy to share my textile art with the world."