Lao Materials
Silk
In Laos there are 2 types of cocoon: white and yellow. Both white and yellow cocoons are found in the north, while only yellow cocoons are found in the south. Both are native to Laos. One type of silkworm eats only mulberry leaves and the scientific name is Bombyx mori.
There is a second type of silkworm in Laos called the Eri silkworm (Philosymia riccini). This moth originates in India and can eat a variety of plants such as castor leaves, cassava leaves, and papaya leaves, but not mulberry. The unique thing about this moth is that silk yarn can be spun from cocoons even after the adult moth has emerged.
The types of silk that these worms produce are very different. The Eri silkworm produces a much coarser rougher silk, when reeled and spun the yarn is thick and inconsistent, very nice for wearing as a scarf.
Did you know that?
- After boiling the cocoon the dead silk worm can be fried and eaten, the worms make a tasty dish.
- 1 kg of raw Lao silk costs on average 250000 kips.
- A single filament of silk is stronger than the equivalent of steel.
- 6,000 cocoons produce 1 kg of silk.
- 200 gs can be hand reeled in one day.
- 1 cocoon contains 500-700 metres of continious silk filament
Hemp
Hemp is made by Hmong people in Northern Laos.
Piat
Piat is a jungle vine produced by Khmu people.
Cotton
Cotton is grown, harvested, spun and woven by Tai Lue people.
