The fibre of the chaguar plant (a forest plant found throughout the semi-arid Chaco region) has been used by the Wichi people to produce numerous objects for domestic use. It’s used to make fishing nets, bags, baskets, strings, ropes, hammocks and clothing.
The language of these communities and the chaguar plant make up a central part of their cultural identity.
Chaguar – like most other natural resources, such as fresh water, fish and fruits – is a resource to which the Wichi have free access. The process of collecting chaguar is time-consuming and labor-intensive. This and the environmental ethics of the community discourage exploitation of the plant.
Women travel into the forest in small groups to harvest the chaguar, they separate its fibres, spin it, dye it and knit it.
With a stick or machete they loosen the plant from the soil and pull it out of the ground. The longest leaves that are in good condition are chosen, the needles are removed and the leaves are pealed to separate the outside layers from the fibre. Then the fibre is removed.
The fibre is left to dry in the sun for a day or two until it becomes white. Spinning is done by joining several fibres and twisting them with a rapid movement of the hands on the thigh. The fibres are then dyed using several colours extracted from forest plants, barks and leaves. Finally, using a needle, the fibre is knitted.
All our chaguar bags & baskets have come from this remote area and crafted in this traditional way. By owning one of these pieces, not only do you get the chance to appreciate the effort, story and culture behind it, you also can rest assured that it was made ethically and sustainably.
Candela - Founder of Casapacha
