Bao La Village: A 600-Year-Old Traditional Bamboo Weaving Village

Introduction

Bao La Village is a small village located about 15 kilometers north of Hue City in Vietnam. The village is home to about 300 households, and in addition to farming, the people of Bao La Village also have a traditional handicraft: making bamboo products for sale.  Initially sold locally, Bao La’s goods are now recognized internationally for their attractive designs and durability.

History

Over 600 years ago, settlers from the northern part of Vietnam established Bao La village. They brought with them the traditional bamboo weaving craft, which they used to make a variety of items for their daily use, such as bamboo baskets and tools for fishing that could be sold to trade for food.

Over time, the bamboo weaving tradition was passed down from generation to generation. Today, most villagers in Bao La know how to weave bamboo. This is why the tradition has been preserved to this day.

Challenges and preservation efforts

In the past, after each harvest season, the villagers of Bao La would turn to bamboo weaving to earn extra income.

However, in the 1980s and 1990s, the introduction of plastic household goods had a devastating impact on the bamboo weaving industry. These new products were cheaper and more versatile, and the traditional bamboo products from Bao La could not compete. As a result, the villagers’ income plummeted, and many were forced to abandon the craft altogether.

Not until 2007, after tireless efforts from the villagers and local organizations, did the Bao La bamboo weaving industry gradually revive. This revival was driven by a combination of factors, including:

A renewed appreciation for eco-friendly products:

As consumers became more aware of the environmental impact of plastic, there was a growing demand for natural alternatives like bamboo products.

Efforts to modernize and diversify products:

The villagers adapted their traditional techniques to create products that appealed to modern consumers, such as stylish furniture and home decor items.

Support for marketing and promotion:

Local initiatives and collaborations helped raise awareness of Bao La’s bamboo products and connect them with a wider market.

How artisans in the village of Bao La weave bamboo into items.

The people of Bao La village use traditional methods and tools to weave bamboo items. Depending on the complexity of the piece, it can take a craftsman anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete it.

Step 1: Select the local bamboo

Crafting a bamboo product starts by picking the right bamboo. Skilled artisans don’t just choose any bamboo; they look for stalks that meet certain standards. The best bamboo is usually at least two years old and quite tall, often over 10 meters. It needs to be straight to make strong and good-looking products. Also, it’s best to harvest bamboo during the dry season to avoid problems caused by moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the bamboo

After selecting the bamboo, it is time to prepare it for weaving. This involves cutting the bamboo to the right size and shape and then removing the nodes. The bamboo is then dried in the sun to remove any moisture.

Step 3: Split the bamboo into strips

The bamboo is split into strips using a sharp knife. The size and length of the strips will depend on the specific product being made.

Step 4: Weaving the product

The weaving process requires skill and patience. Depending on the complexity, the product can be completed in a few hours or it can take several days.

Step 5: Finishing the product

This step involves painting and drying the finished product for beauty and protection. This ensures the creation can be enjoyed for years to come.

The bamboo weaving products of Bao La village

The bamboo weaving products of Bao La village showcase over 500 different designs, including best-sellers like baskets, decorative lamps, tea trays, and furniture. These products are highly regarded for their beautiful designs and durability.

Why bamboo products are eco-friendly

Renewable Resource

Bamboo can regenerate. When you cut the bamboo stalk, new shoots can grow from the root system. Bamboo only takes 2-5 years to grow large enough for harvesting, making it a highly renewable resource.

Low Maintenance

Bamboo plants do not require fertilizers or pesticides to thrive. This means that growing bamboo has a minimal impact on the environment.

Biodegradable

Bamboo products are naturally biodegradable. When disposed of, they break down without harming the environment, unlike many synthetic materials that can take hundreds of years to decompose.

Final Thoughts

For nearly 600 years, the villagers of Bao La Village have preserved their craft despite numerous challenges. As awareness grows about the importance of using eco-friendly products instead of plastic, Bao La’s bamboo items have become increasingly popular. The story of Bao La bamboo weaving village reminds us that within our hands lies the ability to create a life that is both beautiful and sustainable.