It's worth the tuktuk trip to the Lao Textile Museum

Treasures behind the doors

It's time to take off your shoes and discover the collection of beautiful old silk weavings.  

Downstairs, a few looms are set up to show different weaving techniques, some are quite complex. If you fancy it, you can even have a go on the plain weave.

Linc in full concentration mode

Silk threads dyed with plants

Famous round skirts

The collection of antique weavings is displayed in a wooden traditional Lao style house. You will tour the different regions of Lao through these inspiring pieces. 


The lady lead us through the beautiful garden to the dyeing area. She knew I was impatient.

Garden view from the museum house.

Like a floating painting

I went to Vientiane to look for dyeing workshops... and here I was!

The beautiful workshop area

On my first day in Vientiane, I was already spoilt standing over living vats of indigo, taking in the smell of the magic fermentation.

Blue foam forming over the vats of green indigo

I even brought back a laddleful of the blue paste... will I be up to it and manage to use it?

Shades of blue

Indigo plant. 

Indigo is grown in the North of Laos. Vientiane's climate is too hot and dry.

Red dye with insect resin

More secret juices in these jars?

This museum was a highlight of my stay in Vientiane.  Its setting, the collection, the relaxing atmosphere and the friendly hospitality... How can we forget this lovely lady's smile.  I wish I were there today again! 

You can get directions ot get there from the Kanchana shop in Vientiane. The shop sells high quality tradtional silk pieces.
It's a 15mn tuktuk ride to the museum.