Cooperative Preserves Centuries-Old Weaving Tradition in Tibet, Provides Jobs to Over 100 Locals

 

Shannan, Tibet: A cooperative in Shannan, Tibet, is working to preserve a centuries-old traditional weaving craft while passing the skill on to a new generation.

At the Ethnic Huaji Handwoven Cooperative, dozens of women and men weave woolen threads on traditional wooden looms. The cooperative not only provides employment to local residents but also helps preserve the traditional craft through commercial production.

Established in 2008 by Tibetan craftsman Pasang, the cooperative employs more than 100 local people, including people with disabilities.

The cooperative specializes in producing the traditional woolen fabric “Pulu” and its finer variety, “Jeter.” Jeter is made from the particularly soft and fine wool obtained from the neck and back of sheep. Pasang said spinning yarn from the fine wool used for Jeter is more difficult than producing ordinary Pulu.

According to him, Jeter is lighter, softer and more delicate than ordinary Pulu. During the Ming Dynasty, Jeter was reportedly sent from Tibet to the Chinese imperial court as a gift or token of respect.

Pasang, who learned weaving from his parents, said that when he was learning the craft, fewer than 10 people knew how to weave Jeter. The traditional skill has since been recognized as part of China’s national intangible cultural heritage.

The wool used to produce Jeter comes from sheep raised in the Shannan region, located at an altitude of around 3,700 meters above sea level.

Tradition Linked to Princess Wencheng

Statues of Songtsen Gampo, the seventh-century Tibetan king, and Chinese Princess Wencheng are displayed at the cooperative’s workshop.

According to local tradition, Princess Wencheng introduced weaving techniques to Tibet after marrying Songtsen Gampo, contributing to the development of the craft in the region.

The cooperative’s showroom sells products made from Pulu and Jeter, including scarves, shawls, jackets and bags. Pasang said customers also come from other parts of China, although Tibet remains the cooperative’s main market.

By combining traditional skills with employment and commercial production, the cooperative is helping ensure that the centuries-old weaving tradition survives and reaches future generations.