Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Hemp - table mats and table runners


Butterflies - lucky symbol of the Miao


I came across these butterflies while visiting Yangshuo, a beautiful town surrounded by mountains and rivers, about an hour's drive from the city of Guilin in China.  The butterfly is a favourite symbol of the Miao minority, they are embroidered into blankets, costumes, baby carriers, jewelleries, and maybe hats too.  On our way back to the guesthouse one evening, we walked passed a young man sitting on a little stool by the road side, next to a dimly lit lamp he made these butterflies.  It was early winter and the weather was getting a little chilly.  Maybe it was that and perhaps the location, there wasn't a single customer in sight.  Although the colours of these butterflies are a little pale for my liking, I took pity on the young man and bought them anyway.  After all, I already got several dozens of more colourful ones bought from other vendors in town.

Children's Hats


I think children's hats are the most delightful of all needlework creations among minority cultures. They are often loaded with symbolisms and meanings.  They are so much fun to look at - the pleasure and joy are endless.