Thai Handicrafts
The craftsmen of Thailand have been making exquisite handicrafts for hundreds of years. Without exaggeration, it could be said that their works of art now adorn many homes all over the world. That's because Thai handicrafts: offer such unrivaled quality, variety and value. |
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Ginger Camden |
| The vibrant cottage industries of the north, in particular,
turn out an incredible array of goods, ranging from classic "khon" masks to the
subtle basket weaves (which can also be found in Bangkok).Because of the handicrafts
popularity at home and abroad, it has become a national industry with every region taking
pride in specializing in a certain item. Different provinces produce different items. The
north is noted for hilltribe handicrafts, teak woodcarvings, silverware and lacquerware.
The northeast is renowned for silk. The south for nielloware and basketry, and Bangkok for
jewelry and bronzeware. For those who are yet to be initiated to the variety and value of the crafts in Thailand, Bangkok is a wonderful place to start your discovery. The "Big Mango" offers a wide range of handicrafts. Real bargains can be found from the sidewalk stalls selling garments, silk and leather, to fancy stores that offer gold, prized ceramics and antiques. |
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Of course, plenty of people come to Thailand to purchase the famed Thai silk. Since the American Jim Thompson helped Thailand realize the importance of Thai silk in the 1950s, the industry has boomed. It now produces some of the finest silk in the world.Whether buying the fabric alone or some garment made from a choice piece of the fine cloth, the value you'll get in Thailand can't be matched anywhere else. Travelers to the northeast are especially lucky, as some of the finest and cheapest silk are available there. |
| One of the more popular items among Westerners and Thais alike
that doesn't fall into any of the listed categories is the "Mon Khwan", a
triangular cushion. In the Thai home, cushions are an indispensable part of leisure life.
In Thai Homes furniture is kept to a minimum to allow free flow of space and air and the
"triangle cushion" is the perfect piece for relaxing. In Western homes, throw pillows and cushions are an essential part of any family room, for both practical and aesthetic purposes. The triangle cushion is perfect for propping yourself up in front of the television or just lazing about. Although it would be easier to simply stuff one large triangle, the secret to the cushion's support, and cool comfort, is the sewing together of' several small triangular logs in a pyramid shape. The cushions are often ornately embroidered or made up of beautiful brocades. If you still haven't been introduced to the beauty and style of Thai handicrafts, come to Thailand and see the very best. Very few countries in the world have so much to offer for shopping and at bargain prices! |
