The Village Weaver Projects
Village Weaver is a series of initiatives that work directly with artisans in rural locations. The idea is to support artisans located in their home villages rather than creating a centralised ‘factory’. In some cases we work with a partner such as SNV or E.U. micro-projects. Generally a member from the Lao Women’s Union facilitates training activities and co-ordinates field trips.
Working alongside the Lao Women’s Union in 7 provinces, Ock Pop Tok has helped develop a range of handicrafts that combine craftmanship and tradition with artistic creativity and market knowledge. Our team of weavers, designers and tailors transfer their skills to aid atrisans in the transition to a cash economy.
Browse our range of Village Weaver products.
We have found that the benefits from these iniatives are:
| OckPopTok | Village |
|---|---|
| Steady supply of products | Constant market demand |
| New products | New skills, employment for old skills |
| Marketing opportunities | New business skills |
| Product bought directly from artisan | Income stays in the village |
Villages:
Ban Na Nyang, Nam Bak, Luang Prabang: Tai Lue village, weaving.
OPT activities: product development, business skills, currently developing internship programme where master weavers and tailors train in Luang Prabang.- Ban Na Kha, Huaphan: Tai Daeng Village, silk weavers.
OPT activities: colour management skills. 
Ban Dow, Xam Tai: Tai Daeng Village, silk reelers.
OPT activities: buying directly from the families.- Muong Long, Muang Sing, Akha and Mussur villages, embroiderers.
OPT activities: training in Luang Prabang in product design. - Ban Xang, Luang Namtha: Tai Dam, silk ikat weavers.
OPT activities: placing orders for international clients. 
Ban Gong, Muang Ban Nua, Phongsaly: Tai Lue, skirt makers.
OPT activities: product design.- Ban Long Tang, Phongsaly: Kor Oma, cotton weavers, embroidery.
OPT activities: Product design and colour management. - Ban Phahat, Xam Nuea: Hmong Far, hemp and batik.
OPT activities: Product design and marketing opportunities.