Workshops

Ock Pop Tok Textiles Workshop

Fancy learning a little bit of everything, this activity is great for families and groups.

Silkworms & Natural Dyes ( 3+ people)

Meet the Silkworms: First there is an explanation about the worms’ lives; where they come from, who makes silk in Laos and a bizarre list of facts regarding sericulture. Guests are invited to prepare mulberry leaves and feed the worms.

Time to get working: After a brief introduction to the natural dyes, guests are invited to prepare two dye sources. Indigo – green, turmeric – yellow, sappan – pink or purple, lemongrass – light yellow, annatto – monk robe orange, indigo paste – blue. After preparing the dye sources white scarves are dyed in the chosen colours.

Time to take a look: First at the looms,then meet the weavers, followed by an introduction to weaving techniques. There is a detailed demonstration of the ikat technique. Guests are invited to try weaving and spinning on our demonstration looms. 

It’s the details that make this experience special:
Did you know that you can eat silk worms after the silk has been spun? Did you know that a number of the dye sources also make great tasting drinks? Did you know that Silk Worm Poo is actually a medicinal tea?
On average a weaver can weave around 30 cm a day.

As a close: Stroll around the garden watching the sun dip behind the mountains on the Mekong leaves you wondering if this isn't where heaven meets earth.

Please note depending on the season and time of sunset this workshop can start earlier or later.