Line Merging Technique: Beautiful Patterns of Thai Fabrics
Kumnaen describes the wisdom used to create patterns in Thai fabric. This process occurs due to the overlap of fibers in the fabric and must be done before weaving. In the first step, two colored silk or cotton fibers of different weights, such as green and black, white and green, or red and yellow, are spun and twisted together into one strand. In Thailand, there are two fiber twisting systems: (1) left-hand twisting and (2) right-hand twisting. The twisted yarn is mostly used as weft.
The different colored fibers give the woven fabric a shiny, overlapping color similar to squirrel tail fur, hence the name "Squirrel Tail Cloth." Each locality in the northeastern region has a unique name for this method based on the language of their cultural group:
- Be: The Phu Thai and Thai-Lao people call this technique "Be" and often weave it into square sarongs, long cloths, or loincloths.
- Kraniu/Kraniaw: The Kui, Suai, and Khmer people call it "Kun Sen," "Kranew," or "Kraniaw." They commonly weave it into loincloths, square sarongs, and An Lun Sum sarongs. This type of cloth is still widely woven in the northeast.
- Mabmai: The Tai-Lao people of Ubon Ratchathani Province refer to woven cloth with striped patterns as "Mibmai." However, this is no longer widely practiced.
The merging technique showcases the wisdom that makes Thai fabrics beautiful and unique. It is a traditional weaving practice that should be respected and passed on to future generations. If you are interested in understanding more about this weaving process, consider experiencing it yourself through Thai fabric products.
Thank You Source
Intellectual Heritage Book: Isaan Textiles
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