

The Textile Experience
Discover the magic behind the Bolivian Andean Weaving: A textile tour like no other.
Step into the vibrant world of Bolivian textile traditions with an unforgettable visit to the Bolivian Andean Textile Museum (MUTAB). This unique cultural experience invites you to explore a stunning exhibit of authentic Andean weavings—each piece a testament to centuries of skill, symbolism, and heritage.
But this tour offers more than just observation. You'll also have the chance to participate in an engaging textile workshop, where an expert weaver will guide you through the pre-loom weaving technique, an ancient method used long before modern tools. Learn how to create your own woven souvenir using traditional patterns and techniques passed down through generations.
Whether you're a craft enthusiast, a lover of culture, or simply curious about Bolivia’s rich textile history, this hands-on tour offers the perfect blend of education and inspiration. Book your textile tour today and weave your own connection to the Andes!
Pre-Loom Weavings
Pre-loom textiles are a traditional and ancient form of hand weaving practiced in various Andean communities from Bolivia. Unlike loom weaving, these pieces are made without complex structures, using simple techniques like braiding and interlacing.
Taught to children as young as 5, these methods serve as both an introduction to weaving skills and a way to pass down cultural knowledge.
The structure is flat, created by interlacing vertical and horizontal threads. By using specific patterns, the result is a strong and decorative weaving.
Known by different names in native languages—tirinsa (Aymara), wuato or huato (Quechua), these textiles are still used today, especially in traditional clothing, such as belts for women’s skirts or decorative hat bands for men.
We begin the workshop by creating a small woven piece using two interlaced fibers, as an introduction to this technique. This allows participants to become familiar with the structure, the hand positioning, and the movements required.
Next, we move on to weaving a bracelet using multiple interlaced fibers. The technique is similar to the one used in the previous piece, but the level of complexity increases due to the use of different threads.
This workshop is intended for all visitors who wish to begin exploring the world of weaving. The entire process serves as an introduction to pre-loom textiles and lays the foundation for a later workshop where more advanced pieces can be created using this traditional weaving method.
Highlights
- Both activities are operated by a bilingual guide
- The Weaving workshop is conducted by an expert Weaver
Duration
- The entire experience has a duration of 2 hours
Location
- Both activities take place in the facilities of the MUTAB in Miraflores.
Accesibility
- Not wheelchair accesible
- Near public transportation
Book a Tour
- Confirmation will be received at the time of your booking.
- If you would like to book the tour at a different date/time, please contact us here.