Bolivian and Peruvian design belts

This pebble weave structure was taught to me by a Peruvian weaver in Huancayo, Peru. We spent days tied up to the rose bush in the garden weaving tiny 2cm wide bands with a variety of bird, plant and animal designs typical of the region. I then began collecting designs as I traveled through Peru and Bolivia-buying samples, copying from museums or sketching things that I saw in the street and markets. Some of these designs are from Lake Titicaca in Peru, others from the Bolivian lowlands where I live and others from the area around Potosi in Bolivia. Silvia, my weaving teacher can been seen above. The woven pieces are attached to webbing for added strength. The pieces have been woven with three selvedges. The cut end is passed through the buckle and sewn down. The holes for adjustment have been punched through with protective metal eyes.