(Baonghean.vn) -The once-famous hand-woven rush mats are gradually being replaced by more modern machine-woven products. In this context, there are still those who are passionate about preserving the traditional craft. The artisans of Hung Hoa rush mat weaving village (Vinh City) are one example.
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| Recognized as a traditional craft village in 2005, Phong Thuan 1 village (Hung Hoa commune) has 15 households engaged in weaving sedge mats, employing nearly 50 workers, mostly aged 50 and above.. |
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| The skilled hands of the artisan manipulate the jute fibers, lifting and lowering them to create the finished product.At a price of 45,000 VND per mat, two hand weavers can produce six mats per day. |
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Mr. Dinh Van Luong said: “I started weaving sedge mats when I was a child, and it has been more than 50 years now. Although there are many modern products that have replaced handmade sedge mats, Hung Hoa sedge mats are still very popular. That is the motivation for us to keep the flame of the craft alive.” |
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| Weaving a mat requires the cooperation of two people. The loom's teeth are made from the base of an old male bamboo stalk with jute fibers already stretched across it. One person holds a stick and swings the jute fibers through the loom, while the other taps the loom's teeth to press the fibers together evenly and tightly. |
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| The sedge is stored in warehouses year-round. Before weaving, the artisans must dry it again to prevent the sedge fibers from becoming damp, moldy, or brittle. |
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| After the product is finished, the rush mat is sun-dried again to ensure both sides are evenly dry before being delivered to the customer.. |
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| Hung Hoa sedge mats are available throughout the Nghe An market, especially in Vinh City and surrounding districts. |
Wang Yun
