Khaoma Cloth is a woven cloth with a colorful check pattern that is well-known to everyone. Often referred to as the "loincloth," it symbolizes Thai culture. This versatile fabric has been a part of Thai households for centuries, used in many ways, from clothing to religious ceremonies. The original name, "Khao Ma," is derived from the Persian word "Kamarband," meaning a cloth wrapped or tied around the waist.
Khaoma cloth is not originally a Thai term but comes from "Kamar Band" in Persian. The word "Kamar" means waist, and "Band" means to tie. Thus, the term means "waist belt." This type of cloth has been used since the 16th century, evident from the Chiang Saen period, when it was used by men for various purposes, likely influenced by the Tai Lue culture.
The cloth is rectangular, about 2 cubits wide and 3-4 cubits long, usually woven in colorful plaid patterns. It has different names in different regions of Thailand: in the south, it is called "Cropped cloth"; in the northeast, it is known as "Prae Ipo" or "Prae Lin Lan." Silk is the most common material, though some regions use cotton. The cloth has ceremonial uses, such as in Bai Sri Su Khwan, and is used to honor elders or in wedding ceremonies. In the north, it is known as "Hua cloth," while among the Tai Lue it is called "Tong cloth." In the Tai Yuan group in Ratchaburi, it is called "Hua Chok cloth," often woven in red, used both by men and women for temple ceremonies, called "Sawan cloth." The Tai Krang people in Suphanburi, Uthai Thani, and Chainat prefer weaving "5-color cloth" using bright colors like yellow, red, orange, green, and blue.
Click to see the loincloths from the shop. Do you like it?
The loincloth has various uses, such as dressing, bathing, drying the body, covering seats, or protecting oneself from the elements. It is also used for carrying items, wrapping belongings, as a pillow, a rag, a diaper, or a sweat cloth. It can be used as an apron, during childbirth, as a pet tie, or as part of religious and cultural rituals.
Currently, traditional weaving continues in ethnic communities like the Thai Yuan in Mueang District (Lampang, Chiang Mai, Nan, and Ratchaburi provinces), and by Tai Krang weavers in Suphanburi, Chainat, Uthai Thani, and other regions. However, traditional loincloth weaving is becoming rarer as factory-made versions replace hand-woven ones. There is a lack of comprehensive support for traditional craftsmanship, and without intervention, it risks disappearing. The loincloth has been registered as part of Thailand's national cultural heritage since 2013.
Khao Ma Cloth is integral to rituals and beliefs, such as in ordination ceremonies, where it is used as a prostration cloth or an auspicious cloth for monks. It is used from birth to death in Thai culture, serving as a baby blanket, a sun shield, a bed sheet, or a travel wrap, and given as a gift in ceremonies. It may also be one of the items placed in a deceased person's belongings.
For those interested in buying silk for sewing luxury dresses, you can visit www.silkket.com. Our shop offers plain colored silk, Mudmee pattern silk, native silk, and national silk. Each item features meticulous quality by expert technicians.
The shop is dedicated to preserving beautiful culture. Contact the Chobmai store team for assistance in choosing products and additional advice through the channel LineOA: @chobmai. Thank you for your interest and for choosing our products. Chobmai is happy to serve you.
Thank you for the source: