Dao women uphold tradition of cotton cultivation and weaving

ĐBP - Many traditional cultural practices have been preserved and developed by the Dao ethnic people in Điện Biên province over the centuries.

Among these traditions is the cultivation of cotton, spinning of yarn, and weaving of fabric.

The cotton fibers, after being separated from the seeds, are fluffed to prepare for the spinning process.

Primarily residing in Huổi Só commune, Tủa Chùa district, Dao women consider these skills essential due to their deep respect for traditional attire. Typically, a Dao woman creates 3-4 sets of clothing for her family each year.

The traditional clothing of the Dao people features dark indigo-dyed fabrics with intricate, colourful patterns on the hems, complemented by silver jewellery and vibrant strands. The fabric is made from cotton plants, which the Dao people plant in March and harvest in July.

The cotton bolls are then dried, and the fibres are separated from the seeds.

The cotton fibres are fluffed to make them even, spun into yarn, and then woven into fabric on looms. This entire process is time-consuming and labour-intensive, requiring skill and meticulousness from the women.

A Dao woman spins yarn.

August and September are peak months for spinning yarn, which is stored for use throughout the year. As the year ends, women are particularly busy preparing fabric to sew new clothes for their family members.

Despite the ease of market trade today, Dao women continue to pass down the traditions of cultivating cotton, spinning yarn, and weaving fabric from generation to generation, ensuring the preservation of their cultural heritage.

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