FELTED WOOL GRAY SLIPPERS
$34.00

What a Wonderful Swirl

Treat your tootsies to the comfort and beauty of the remarkable craftsmanship of artisans working a world away. These unique slippers are made by Kyrgyz tailors through the aid of Gulnara Kydyrmyshova, an entrepreneurial local artisan who has helped revive and bring attention to the distinctive handicraft of this recently-independent nation and its people. Each snuggly but firm pair features a traditional Kyrgyz swirled design rendered intricately in vibrant thread and soft natural felt made from wool shorn from local sheep. The slipper's toes are turned up slightly because the Kyrgyz believe that we should always respect the planet, and thus, not directly step on it. Perfectly suited for brief strolls as well as extended lounges around the house, the woolen material absorbs moisture and odor as it keeps feet dry and warm. Plus, when slipped on bare feet, the friction created from the wool improves blood circulation, and the lanolin in the fabric soothes aching muscle and joints. Handmade in Kyrgyzstan.

• Item ID: 23104
• Materials: vinyl, wool
• See below for measurements.
• Sizing: Small = Women's 5-6; Medium = Women's 7-8; Large = Women's 9-10; Extra Large = Women's 11-12/Men's 9-10
  Care: Clean with damp cloth, air dry

Gulnara Kydyrmyshova

Gulnara Kydyrmyshova is the Director of 'Kork, Fiber Art Group.' In 1991 when Kyrgyzstan became an independent country most of Kyrgyzstan's talented artists fled to the more creative cities of Moscow or Bishkek, the captial of Kyrgyzstan. However, Kydyrmyshova had to stay behind in Karakol, a fairly unknown city in Eastern Kyrgyzstan. A specially-trained artist under the Soviet Union, Kydyrmyshova was commissioned for many projects reflecting the ideology and nature of the Union. See all creations.