The Makers of Barrio Italia

Hosted by a Chilean textile entrepreneur, this arts and crafts cultural shopping experience takes place in Barrio Italia. Shared between Providencia & Ñuñoa communes, this vibrant neighborhood is named for the factories built by Italian immigrants during the late 19th century. These days, many workshops remain while young designers and artists have set up camp in trendy independent boutiques. Florencia Campos Correa (known for her global pin weaving brand Ullvuna) guides you through these picturesque streets and share the history of Barrio Italia — meeting the famous antique dealers on Calle Caupolicán and calling into the Factoría Italia Cultural Center. A bilingual guide, Flor will introduce you to artisans, craftspeople and designers, facilitating a cultural exchange few tourists experience. The tour includes a short weaving activity over coffee in a local cafe and a mini textile kit to take home. There’s time to browse — and, if you're interested, buy high-quality souvenirs.

Flor's walking tour in Barrio Italia is an opportunity to learn about Chilean art culture, connect with contemporary makers, try your hand at textile design over coffee and pastries, and purchase unique souvenirs (optional). Barrio Italia has avoided the over‑commercialisation often found in these types of neighborhoods; Santiago locals like Flor come to indulge in cosmopolitan gastronomy fusing Chilean, Italian, and global styles and to unwind at the late-night bars. One of Santiago's most beguiling neighborhoods, creativity pours out of every crevice and every angle is photogenic. Its story is told through the layers of heritage architecture, immigration history, independent design, and contemporary creatives. Visiting Barrio Italia with Flor means that you'll get to speak with the people responsible for maintaining the neighborhood's authentic identity. As a textile and industrial designer, Flor is knowledgeable about the work of these designers and craftspeople.

Florencia Campos Correa, or Flor, is a Chilean-Spanish textile designer and author based in Santiago. Her business, Ullvuna, is dedicated to portable pin loom weaving kits which are available globally. Much of Flor's inspiration comes from her passion and appreciation for Chilean culture and people. She deeply admires the landscapes and nature as well as the ancient fables she absorbed as a child while traveling every corner of Chile by caravan with her family. Flor has authored several books packed with vibrant pattern inspiration and projects. Her nature motifs are translated into floral crochet designs published in a British magazine and she has penned a children's story which inspires creativity and entrepreneurship in the youngest of budding designers.

Comfortable footwear for walking. Tote bags are recommended, should you wish to purchase any items as it helps to reduce plastic waste in the markets.