Preserving La Chi cultural identity through hemp weaving

Living in Ban May and Xuan Giang communes, the La Chi people have preserved hemp spinning and weaving as an integral part of their ethnic cultural heritage. From strands of hemp, through the diligent and skilful hands of women, lengths of fabric gradually take shape, forming traditional costumes characterised by rustic indigo hues and delicate patterns.

Beyond serving everyday needs, each piece of fabric embodies folk knowledge, aesthetic values and pride in ancestral roots. Through every hemp fibre and every woven thread, La Chi cultural traditions continue to be passed down through generations, helping preserve the ethnic group’s identity amid modern life.

Cotton fibres are spread out under the sun in preparation for the cotton teasing and spinning process.

After spinning, La Chi women carefully straighten and smooth the fibres, drawing them evenly by hand to produce uniform threads.

Working patiently at their looms, women transform delicate threads into pieces of coarse fabric to their satisfaction.

Spinning is the most challenging stage, requiring considerable skill, dexterity and graceful hand movements.

La Chi women patiently dye and dry the fabric at least five times to achieve a deep, lasting indigo colour that reflects the distinctive cultural identity of their ethnic group.

Quynh Chau