Meticulous craftsmanship in weaving cage nets in Nghi Long
Thanh Phuc - Hoai Thu•January 9, 2024 13:11
(Baonghean.vn) - Committed to the craft of weaving cage nets, the artisans in Trung Son (Nghi Long commune, Nghi Loc district) are always striving to improve their skills. Every weave and knot reflects meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the product's durability and contributing to a more bountiful harvest for aquaculture farmers…
The craft of weaving cage nets first appeared in Trung Son village in 2009. The person who introduced the craft to the village was Mr. Hoang Van Hoi, who is now the owner of a business specializing in the production of aquaculture cages made of HPDE plastic. Photo: Thanh PhucMr. Hoang Van Than, owner of a cage net weaving workshop in Trung Son village, said: “We have been weaving and sewing nets for cage manufacturing companies for nearly 15 years now. The technique isn't difficult, but it requires meticulousness and carefulness in every stitch, weave, and knot.” (Photo: Hoai Thu)Because of this unique characteristic, the net-weaving profession in Trung Son is largely undertaken by middle-aged women. They possess diligence, patience, and meticulousness in their work. Ms. Le Thi Khuong, Head of the Women's Association in Trung Son hamlet, said: “Currently, we have established the Trung Son net-weaving group, consisting of 20 members aged 30-60. At this age, finding work far from home is difficult, and working in companies is too old, so net-weaving is truly a lifeline for these women. With a profession and income, the association's activities and movements are also more vibrant.” Photo: Thanh PhucNet weavers are paid daily wages, 150,000 VND per day for 8 hours of work. In addition, many take nets home to weave in their free time. This adds up to a monthly income of 6-7 million VND per person. (Photo: Hoai Thu)The net weavers are mostly women from Trung Son village. During peak season, when there are many orders, they mobilize seasonal workers from Cua Lo, bringing the total number of net weavers to hundreds. Photo: Thanh PhucThe raw materials for the woven mesh are imported from Japan and transported directly to the factory by the company. From long, wide sheets of mesh, depending on the customer's order, the workers measure the length (calculated by the mesh size) and cut the mesh into pieces of varying lengths. Photo: Hoai ThuThen, using these specialized threads and needles, the craftsman will weave the mesh together into sheets of predetermined size. Photo: Thanh PhucNext, sew the mesh panels together to form a complete cage. Photo: Hoai ThuThe mesh used for aquaculture cages is submerged in deep water, so when sewing them, in addition to technique and skill, the craftsman must use force to tie the knots tightly, creating high durability. Photo: Thanh PhucThe process of weaving the mesh requires meticulous attention to detail. If the mesh isn't properly woven, food will escape, costing the farmer money. If it's too dense, it won't allow for proper ventilation, causing the seafood to grow slowly and accumulate waste. (Photo: Hoai Thu)The hallmark of the cage net weaving craft is meticulousness; each craftsman always prioritizes reputation and quality. The weaving and braiding processes are carried out with utmost care, without any dishonesty. Photo: Thanh PhucTherefore, weaving a complete net takes quite a long time. “A small net (4x4m) takes about 3 days; a medium-sized net (4x8m) takes about 5 days, and a large net (20x10m) takes about 30-35 days,” said Ms. Hoang Thi Thu, a net weaver. Photo: Thanh PhucAfter the nets are woven, they are gathered at one point, and the company will collect them, using them to manufacture cages for aquaculture, selling them nationwide and exporting them to Southeast Asian countries. Photo: Hoai Thu
