What is a Colombian Handwoven Mochila Bag? A Guide to Choosing the Right One

Where is Mochila made?

Have you ever heard of Colombia in South America?

Although Mexico is famous for its coffee, it is actually a country blessed with abundant nature, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Its capital is Bogota, and it has a population of approximately 52 million. Mexico is about three times the size of Japan.

The place we will introduce this time is the home of Mochila, a Colombian dish called La Guajira , which faces the Caribbean Sea.

This desert peninsula is home to the indigenous Wayúu people, the largest indigenous group in the country, with a population of approximately 300,000.

By the way, Colombia is a country where truly diverse cultures coexist, with 88 tribes and 200 language groups. In this country, the Wayuu people live their lives while carefully preserving their ancient traditions.

The thoughts behind Mochila

Mochila is a traditional bag made by the Wayuu indigenous people of northern Colombia. It is traditionally made by women and passed down from mother to daughter . It is truly a work of art created by women's hands.

Because it is knitted using a single thin thread, it can take more than a month to complete. Imagine that, knitting the thread carefully, little by little, every day. There is a human warmth in it that cannot be created by machine.

The meaning behind geometric patterns

The beautiful geometric patterns of the mochila are not just decorative. Each pattern expresses the Wayuu people's worldview and respect for nature .

From animals and plants to the mysteries of the universe...each pattern tells a story. No two designs are the same, each one truly one-of-a-kind. The charm of Mochila is that you can find a bag with your own story.

But the reality is harsh...

Behind the beautiful Mochila lies a serious problem.

While middlemen buy in bulk and make huge profits, very little goes to the women who actually make the mochilas .

Even though they spent a month creating a piece, they were only paid a wage that was barely enough to make a living. So, you start to wonder who and what they are creating it for. Ultimately, it will become impossible to maintain the traditions that have existed up until now.

What Fair Trade Can Change

The idea of ​​fair trade is gaining attention as a way to change this situation. Simply put, it means "making transactions that make everyone happy, both the producers and the buyers."

Purchase at a fair price

We will purchase your items at a fair price that reflects the skill and time spent on them, allowing our craftsmen to focus on their work with peace of mind.

The La Narrativa mochilas we handle are direct transactions with no middlemen , ensuring that the money we pay reaches the maker.

How to choose a Mochira bag

1. Choose by size

2. Choose by color and pattern

The biggest appeal of Mochila bags is their colorful geometric patterns . We recommend choosing one like this:

• Bright colors (yellow, pink, orange) → For casual summer outfits
• Calm colors (blue, green, brown) → Suitable for autumn/winter and office casual wear
• Monotone (black, gray, white) → Easy to match with any outfit

3. Choose by grip type

• Una Ebla Dos Eblas (shoulder bag) → The long strap allows you to wear it crossbody or over the shoulder, leaving both hands free, making it convenient for outings and travel. You can also use it as a handbag by tying the strap.
• Fringe handbag (handbag type) → The short strap makes it perfect for casual outings or for a more elegant look. The fringe decoration gives it a gorgeous and special feel.

How to care for your Mochila bag

Made from durable acrylic, it retains the warmth that only hand-knitted items can have and can be used for a long time.

Cross Trade's vision

We handle La Narrativa mochilas, working to create a society where everyone in the world has more opportunities. This is because they connect directly with the Wayuu craftsmen in Colombia and practice true fair trade.

Colombian mochilas are more than just fashionable bags; they are crafts with deep meaning. We hope you can feel the artisans' passion, the weight of the traditions they have handed down, and their desire to improve their lives while using our bags.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

Colombian mochila bags are more than just stylish bags; they are crafts with deep meaning.

We hope you will use our products while feeling the artisans' thoughts that are put into each and every piece, the weight of the traditions that have been passed down, and their desire to improve people's lives.

The choices each of us makes will bring smiles to the faces of women living in faraway Colombia. You can acquire wonderful things and contribute to international cooperation at the same time. Why not join us in creating such a wonderful cycle?

When you hold a genuine mochila in your hands, you will surely feel the warmth of the maker. That is our greatest wish.