Map of Laos: weaving styles by region + ethnic group
- Luang Prabang,Tai Lue
Tai Lue traditionally use hand dyed cotton in their weavings, handwoven on a loom. The use of locally grown indigo plants, fermented to produce stunning indigo natural dye is prevalent in their work. Tai Lue are famous for their use of beautiful symmetry in their weavings whether this is in the geometric motifs or stripes. - Luang Prabang,Oma
Oma is one of the smallest ethnic groups in Laos. They produce uniquely exquisite embroidered textiles. - Xieng Khouang,Hmong
Hmong are famous for their beautiful handstitched ‘pictures’ depicting daily life in the village. Hmong also use indigo in their very distinctive batik patterns. - Houaphan,Lao Loum
Softwinds of Trade is delighted to partner with master weavers from this remote village in Xieng Khouang province in Laos. This collective of master weavers produce beautiful silk weavings detailing complex traditional motifs in beautiful colour palettes handwoven on a loom. - Sekong,Nge
Softwinds of Trade is delighted to partner with master weavers from this little known, small ethnic group living in Sekong Province in Laos after meeting them at the annual Lao Handicraft Festival. We were immediately enamoured with the colour and motifs of these beautiful textiles depicting daily village life. Using indigenous cotton handspun, dyed naturally using tree bark, leaves and fruits, and handwoven on a foot braced back strap loom. - Saravane,Katu
Katu ethnic group weave on a foot tensioned back strap loom using cotton and beads. The beads are woven in on the weft thread. This unique style is immediately recognisable by its striking colours and beaded motifs. - Xieng Khouang,Tai-Kadai
Tai-Kadai is the most populous ethnic group in Laos (65% of the population) and includes the Lao, Tai Dam (Black Tai), Tai Leu, and Tai Deng (Red Tai) groups. Silk weaving from this group are woven on a standing loom, usually under a weaver’s house. They are beautiful weavings full of motifs and meanings. The Softwinds of Trade range includes sublime silk scarves.