Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization)

“Nan Neau Jao” Woven Textiles – the Balance of Nature and Art

          Witness the development of local handwoven textiles of Nan province into the “Nan Neau Jao” brand, a signature product representing the craftsmanship and unique artistic style of the province.
 

          When thinking of Nan, most people recall the good vibes of the north – the warm welcome and smiles of the locals and delicious cuisine. These charms highlight the numerous tourist attractions of Nan province. Moreover, Nan is renowned for its handwoven textiles with unique patterns. To underscore the locals’ skills, improve their quality of living, and generate sustainable revenue, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) (DASTA) supported the community by developing the “Nan Neau Jao” textile brand. The brand serves as the signature souvenir for tourists visiting Nan, which helps the general public recall the province and its key features.
 

“Nan Neau Jao” shares the Story of Handwoven Textiles by the Women of Nan “น่านเน้อเจ้า”

          When seeking to understand the historical background of Nan province, “handwoven textiles” will provide the most accurate portrayal through their exclusive and captivating colors, patterns, and designs. This cultural heritage has been preserved throughout the generations, creating a reputation for the province. The “Nan Neau Jao” brand reflects the collaboration between the local community and businesses by the support of DASTA’s organization in Nan province. This creates a marketing channel for handwoven textile communities in Mueang district and other areas, which include the following:

          - Hong Jao Fong Kham Handwoven Textile Group, Nai Wiang Subdistrict
          - Ban Sao Luang Handwoven Textile Group, Bo Suak Subdistrict  
          - Ban Na Pong Pattana Handwoven Textile Group, Na Sao Subdistrict
          - Ban Chiang Rai Career Development Group, Du Tai Subdistrict
          - Ban Nong Tao Handwoven Textile Group, Phu Piang District
 

          Although these community enterprises come from various areas, they are unified by a common passion for creating handwoven textiles. Each group has its own unique technique, developing new patterns to create additional market value. This creates products which continuously increase public awareness of Nan province. Visitors are welcome to study the process of developing the Nan Nuea Jao brand and attend hands-on workshops at textile weaving centers run by the women of Nan. The eye-opening experience includes handling the cotton seeds, creating and spinning the threads, applying natural dye, weaving the textile, and creating patterns unique to each community.

          Having a conversation with the local experts while observing their demonstrations add to the excitement during the workshop. Visitors will learn how to operate the loom and develop a greater appreciation for the handwoven textiles which may take weeks – or even a month – to complete. These exclusive and beautiful local products won the PATA Gold Awards 2020 under the Women Empowerment Initiative of the Pacific Asia Travel Association.

Nan Neau Jao – a Brand of Numerous Patterns and Stories

          With each community creating different design patterns, Nan textiles have transcended its basic use as clothing – serving as a tool which reflects the art of life portrayed by local communities. These patterns include:

          - Water Droplet Patterns: These unique textile patterns are crafted at Hong Chao Fong Kham, a living museum serving as a learning center organized by the Hong Chao Fong Kham Handwoven Textile community. The locals developed the traditional “water pattern” into “water droplets” and other unique patterns to create value. They also expanded a significant amount of area for weaving textiles. These efforts help revive the ancient textiles into products demanded by the modern market. The water and water droplet patterns are time-consuming, requiring perseverance to create and complete. Each process is time-honored and meticulous. The first step is softening the cotton in rice water and sun-drying the contents. The cotton threads are placed on reels and stretched before being placed on a loom for weaving.
 

          - “Bo Suak” Pattern Textiles: Bo Suak is an ancient community of the Lanna Kingdom with an age of approximately 700-800 years. The locals of the community are skilled in numerous industries, such as pottery, basketry, organic agriculture, and handwoven textiles. They preserved their ancient skills for making a living. The Ban Sao Luang Handwoven Textile Community Enterprise is well-known for its signature “Bo Suak” pattern, inspired by the ancient patterns on clay pots. From weaving sarongs and loincloths, the community started weaving dresses and shirts to meet contemporary demand.
 

          - “Ta Kong” Pattern: With an age of hundreds of years, the “Ta Kong” pattern is exclusive to the Du Tai subdistrict. According to the Ban Chiang Rai Career Development Group of Du Tai, loincloths and blankets with the “Ta Kong” pattern is believed to protect the owner from danger. The locals developed their weaving techniques to incorporate three vertical threads, which prevents discoloration and adding the necessary texture for creating a variety of products. The signature colors of black, red, and white are still used.

          The process of developing the “Nan Neau Jao” brand was far from simple. It required experts who are passionate and creative in designing handwoven textiles, which serve as the cultural heritage of Nan province. We invite you to visit Nan to experience the province’s captivating handwoven textile industry.  

Source:
pr.prd.go.th
น่าน เน้อเจ้า