Q'ero Andean Ch'ullo Cap - Beaded

The Quechua word for hat is ch’ullo. Hats are an important part of the Quechua men's traditions. The men knit all of their own ch’ullos. It is tradition that fathers knit their sons' first ch’ullo which can take up to a month to make. If not a good knitter, the father must trade for something with another man who is to obtain a well-made ch’ullo. The embellishing of garments with beads started in the 1980s, inspired by the embroidery work on vests and jackets. Knitting is known from the 16th century and the multi-colored intricately designed knitted hats, some made from handspun alpaca, particularly the ceremonial hats, are now laden with beads. One hat may have a kilo of white beads sewn on after knitting. These knitted hats are worn by men.