What is a Frasada blanket (sometimes spelled Frazada) and what is its purpose? The word Frasada literally means ‘blanket’ in the Spanish language and refers to blankets made in Peru. They are traditional blankets that are made in the Andes to protect against the cold temperatures of the high altitudes. They date back to pre-Columbian times and are characteristically thick, warm and sturdy. The specific type of weave used to make these blankets helped combat the cold temperatures of the highlands.

The weaving skills that are used to make these types of blankets has been passed down through generations and children learn how to make them before their tenth birthday in traditional cultures. The colors, patterns, and techniques of each individual blanket are highly unique and represent the individual artistry of the weaver. Often the patterns also have cultural significance such as a representation of a particular lineage or to commemorate events such as weddings. Because each piece is an individual creation of the weaver you know that you are adding a completely unique piece to your home when you buy this type of blanket.

Each Frasada blanket is 100% natural and is made from sheep and/or alpaca wool that has been coloured using natural dyes. The process begins by first shearing the sheep. The fibers from the sheep are then dyed with natural colorings extracted from plants, fruits, insects and roots. Once dyed, the fibers are hand-spun before being woven on a backstap loom. The weavings created are twice the length of what will be the completed Frasada. They are then cut in half and sewn together in the middle with a whipstitch. The process is quite involved and usually takes 4-6 weeks to complete.

Frasada blankets are luxuriously thick and durable while still being soft to the touch. Because of the nature of each individual weave that is used to create them and the huge range of colors and designs that they come in, Frasadas can be used for many purposes in home decor and design. They are often used in modern decor designs as rugs, but can also work beautifully as bed covers or runners, as throw blankets and wall hangings. You can also use them as they were intended as a blanket – for picnics, for example. Many designers also use them draped over the back of a sofa or tucked into the seat cushions of a couch as a simple way to incorporate color in a room. Because of their durable nature, Frasadas can also make a great material for upholstery projects.