Single backpacking trip to Peru in 2002

What for Lasse and Tina Elvang began as a stand-alone backpacking trip to Peru in 2002, was to prove to be the beginning of a long-term relationship. A relationship that would change both their lives and the area they visited.

In Peru, Lasse and Tina met a hard-working and cordial people with proud craft traditions who cared for their history, traditions and animals, but also an overwhelming poverty that cut to the heart.

The alpaca, which for millennia has been an important domestic animal for the Peruvians, in fact all the way back to the Incas, produces the finest wool imaginable. With the experiences from Peru and alpaca plaids in their luggage, Tina and Lasse returned to Denmark very keen to make a difference for the Peruvians they had met through their unique alpacas. 

A lot has happened since 2002. Other materials and products have been added such as organic cotton tea towels. Also in Peru, things have changed since then. The collaboration between Elvang and the Peruvians means that jobs and educational opportunities have been created for the suppliers, which the shepherds, weavers, knitters and their families benefit from.

The essence of Elvang, however, has remained unchanged. What was true in 2002 is true today, and it will be true in the future. At Elvang, it is above all about integrity, everything else is secondary. Whether it's in relation to the environment, animals, suppliers, dealers or customers, it's about taking care of each other and treating each other properly. This will ultimately result in the best products. That is why we at Elvang say that we create textiles with integrity.