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A Tibetan cooperative keeps a centuries-old weaving tradition alive
The workshop employs more than 100 local residents and trains younger Tibetans as it turns soft sheep wool into scarves, shawls and jackets.
Founded in 2008 by artisan Pasang, the Ethnic Huaji Handwoven Cooperative in Shannan, Tibet, employs more than 100 residents to preserve the ancient Zeter weaving tradition. The workshop teaches younger Tibetans a craft Pasang feared was disappearing.
According to local tradition, the weaving craft dates to when Princess Wencheng introduced techniques to Tibet after marrying 7th century King Songtsen Gampo. Pasang noted Zeter was presented as a tribute to the Chinese imperial court during the Ming dynasty.
Artisans source wool from sheep raised at about 3,700 meters, or 12,100 feet, above sea level around Shannan. Pasang explained the finer wool makes Zeter yarn significantly more difficult to spin than standard Pulu.
Employee Tsering Yangchen, 80, has worked at the cooperative for seven years after struggling to find employment elsewhere. She emphasized Pulu is more than a product, saying, "We usually wear them."
Recognized as part of China's national intangible cultural heritage, the craft gains official status and market legitimacy. During a visit last month, the Associated Press observed the showroom displaying scarves, jackets, and bags sold primarily in Tibet and across China.
More than a dozen men and women work daily on the wooden looms, passing the shuttles between the rows of woolen threads and patiently repeating the same movements. In this way they continue a centuries-old tradition in Tibet, weaving Pulu, the traditional woolen fabric used for generations on the Tibetan plateau. The art remains alive at the Huaji National Cooperative of Handmade Weavers, in Sanan district, where artisans strive to preserve one …