Elena Iwatani, a Paraguayan artisan, recently donated 1,000 copies of her instructional book on the traditional ñandutí lace craft. Ñandutí, whose name in Guaraní means “spider’s web,” is delicate lacewor, and embodies mestizo creativity, historical memory, and Paraguay’s cultural identity. The book copies were distributed to schools and libraries across the country to reach children, young learners, and enthusiasts of this art form. Ultimately, this initiative aims to transmit her knowledge to new generations eager to learn and preserve this Paraguayan cultural symbol.
Iwatani’s guide on ñandutí was originally published in Japanese in 2010. Later, Megumi Kumagai translated the text into Spanish for its 2025 release. Inside, the book explains over 85 traditional models out of 350 recognised patterns. Furthermore, it provides step-by-step instructions to reproduce each pattern with proper technique.
From Paraguarí to Tokyo: a universal tradition
Elena Iwatani was born in La Colmena, a district located in the Paraguarí Department, and is currently based in Tokyo, Japan. There, she teaches her craft to an average of 300 participants per month. Moreover, in 2025, she reached an even larger audience at Expo Osaka by showcasing ñandutí designs and techniques to nearly 2,000 Japanese spectators.
Ñandutí’s creative possibilities have also expanded through her work. By integrating Japanese artwork-inspired designs and colours, she explores new ways of expression while keeping core ñandutí principles intact. This proves that “ñandutí has become universal”, as she notes, by preserving its roots while embracing new concepts.
Bridging Paraguay and Japan through art
The ñandutí instructor also participated in the Nikkei Art and Culture Exhibition titled Huellas y Miradas (Traces and Gazes), held at the Centro Cultural del Puerto de Asunción in September 2026. During the gathering, attendees viewed handmade pieces crafted by members of the Ñandutí Association in Japan. In addition, organisers hosted talks explaining the intricate methods behind lace creation.
Through her dedication to teaching and her book donation, Elena Iwatani continues to expand access to this traditional ñandutí art. Her recent donation of 1,000 copies ensures that practical knowledge reaches readers across continents. Consequently, local artisans and future generations will gain valuable tools to keep the tradition alive for years to come.
