Whether you have visited a country in South America or are just fascinated with all of the country’s bright colors, charming animals and handmade creations; South American home décor may be an ideal purchase for your home. Depending on a particular theme, shoppers can purchase handmade Peruvian wool tapestries, throws, rugs and miniature animals. These brightly-colored objects are made using natural dyes and traditional weaving/looming techniques. Since many of these objects are individually manufactured, shoppers need to be careful how they wash and care for each item, as colors can bleed when machine washed and delicate fibers can be damaged in high-heat dryers. Care and cleaning instructions will usually accompany each item.
Artwork can range from traditional Native images of days past to popular South American animals. These works of art are usually hand drawn and may be one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Some artists are also animal herders and choose to create sketches in the fields. Photographic art and sculptures are also available and may feature hand-carved Harpy Eagles, flamingos, toucans and jaguars. Animals may be made from Brazil woods or may be adorned with native bird feathers.
South American home décor can also include popular Christmas decorations. Ornaments usually include aspects of daily life; from clothing to animals and landmarks. While an ornament of the Andes may not be readily available, those featuring rainforest animals, miniature clothing items and mythical creatures may be easier to find.
Hammered metal sculptures, figurines, vases and other household items are often sold to tourists and on the home decorating market. Usually originating from Peru and Bolivia, many of these metal items are reproductions of those that have been passed down from one generation to the next, or reproductions of those that have been unearthed at archaeological excavations.
Collectors of weapons will want to purchase reproduced models traditionally made in Ecuador. Ideal for displaying on walls, in shelves or on coffee tables, many of these items are made from bronze and are in the shape of ancient swords. Because they are created using a bronze or a silver-gold alloy and are handmade, prices for reproduced models will tend to be high; however the quality of an Ecuadorian-made piece is second-to-none.
Jewelry is also a popular decorating item. While some people choose to keep theirs hidden in a jewelry box, others have created glass-topped display cases and shadowboxes to showcase their handmade treasures. If interested in purchasing jewelry items and using them as part of your chosen decor theme, hand-hammered necklaces in gold, silver and copper are very popular and are made by local craftsmen. To complete the theme, consider purchasing a display case or table made with South American wood. Brazil is a major producer of quality furniture and has many wooden home décor items suitable for any room. This should complete your theme and will leave plenty of unused space to house additional items.