In a place as dedicated to maintaining its geographical independence as the archipelago of Chiloé, it’s easy to see why artisanal crafts still hold such a treasured spot among the local offerings. More than just providing tourists with a piece of the magic to bring home with them, the Chilote markets feature items still very much in use in the daily local life. Baskets, for example, are an integral part of farming and fishing practices on the islands.

Woolen textiles serve as perhaps the most versatile material among these crafts. Hand-woven and naturally dyed, the rich material comes back to life in the form of traditional dolls, rugs, blankets, and an endless array of clothing items.
While Chilote traditions thrive among the bounty, modern design also has a place in woolen ware. Kelgwo, a beautiful shop in the town of Ancud, offers a high-end take on the art of textile design. Kelgwo’s creator Marcia Marcilla pairs delicate detail with voluptuous lines in the creation of unique tops, jackets, rugs, and throw pillows, to name a few. The result is a beautiful blend of textures rooted in traditional techniques but with an eye toward high style. Details on how to visit the Kelgwo store and workshop can be found here: http://www.kelgwo.cl/news.html.