Our second day in Luang Prabang was dedicated to Ock Pop Tock. We had read about this organization and were originally scheduled for a 1/2 day class. Granny and I decided we wanted a full day class instead. Granny opted to have a full day class learning weaving. I opted to do the first half day learning about dying silk and fabric and the second half the day learning weaving.
On the left is a basket of living silk worm cocoons. The silk thread must be "harvested" before the moth emerges from the cocoon. Then we were shown some sample fabrics that had been dyed various colors. All the dyes are natural and come from wood, bark, roots, flowers, seeds, etc. some of which are shown in the dishes in front of the fabrrics. Some sample skeins of dyed silk are shown drying.
They also do batik work at Ock Pop Tock. However, we just observed as we passed where the batik master was working.
Granny starting her weaving project.
I start by getting the seeds for my dye. Then they are crushed.
The crushed seeds and stems are boiled.
While the dye is cooling, I am tying my cloth for the desired pattern.
My cloths are tied and ready to be dyed.
I
I'm winding silk onto a spool.
I join the weaving brigade.
Our finished weavings.
Click
HERE to see the Weavers in action.
I squeeze the cloth while it is immersed in the dye.
Voila!! The finished product.
Ock Pop Tock was a full day experience. Unfortunately the day was VERY cold as you can see from the blankets that we wrapped around ourselves to keep warm. We had hoped to visit the night market which was almost across the street from our hotel but it was too cold. Instead we just had dinner and then back to the hotel to warm up. The following day was our last day in Laos and we were off to see a waterfall. When we reached the waterfall area, it was about lunch time however, as I recall, we decided not to partake.
A small portion of the menu.
There was quite an array of grilled delights from which to choose. We looked and didn't touch!
The falls were magnificent.
On the way back, we stopped at a small village where there were some women were preparing some yarn for weaving. They may be using the old methods for some things but they were up to date with data reception. Notice the dish on the side of the house. I also liked the carved window covers.
I'm not sure what dish the women were preparing but with those peppers it was certainly going to be hot! And I am always amused by the little ones playing.
