Womb Warmers™

IntiArt x PlantasForThePeople Womb Warmers™.

IntiArt™ Womb Warmers is a project I’ve been developing with my grandmother to showcase her artistry and provide income for her and other indigenous artists in Bolivia. Each garment is made with time and precision, designed to last a lifetime with proper care. My intention is to carry the essence of her work, placing the final chapter of her career in the hands of those who honor the sacredness of wool, keeping their bodies warm and protected. I can still picture her always wearing wool, no matter the weather. 

Amid supporting births and being pregnant with my second child, I found myself confronting the deep pains in my relationship with my mother, and hers with hers. It became clear that I, too, needed support and healing. I realized the importance of nurturing my own womb and creating a tool for women to do the same. As a birth attendant, I was already planting the belief that healing and birthing power is innate; it’s just about uncovering the blocks. I designed the Womb Warmer jumper as a tool for that purpose, to empower women and reclaim my own healing. With just an idea, I brought my grandmother a rough draft, and she brought it to life. As her health fades and she nears the end of her journey, this garment honors her as the matriarch of our legacy—a tangible piece of our shared story.

IntiArt ™ original jumper made out of 100% organic alpaca wool that expands so it can also be used during the entire pregnancy, during La cuarentena (the fourth trimester or “postpartum”), ceremonial underwear to wear while menstruating (+ bloated), for digestive issues + healing, and to keep the womb warm + air circulating. 

Baby alpaca wool is used because it is a lot softer, and less irritating on the skin. Garments are dyed with natural plant dyes. The alpaca wool when worn, expands when the climate is warm to allow airflow. When the climate is cool, the wool restricts to retain body heat, just like it would on the animal.

Alpaca wool adapts to adjust to a wide range of climates when worn, making it still useful during summer and winter months. Unlike cotton, sweat does to stick to the garment. Hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent. Do not wring, or dry in the sun. Lay the garment flat to dry on top of a towel.