In Laos there are several methods through which handcrafted objects, textiles and the artisans who produce these objects can be accessed.

• The most fulfilling and satisfying method is, of course, to contact the artisans themselves directly - hence, we have made an effort in our writing on individual crafts to provide the general location of practicing artisans, since it is rare that exact addresses can be obtained.

• The second access route is through contacts with NGOs and the Fair Trade Group Members who have close links with the artisan community. (These are listed under the Organization section.)

• The third route for access to crafts and textiles is through local markets and fairs. These are listed below.

• The fourth route is through the Laos Handicraft Association, established as a non-profit organisation to promote the handicraft trade, consisting of private sector business, organisations and artisans. For a comprehensive list of its members visit www.laohandicrafts.com

We hope to continuously add to the documentation, thus increasing the information base, and enhancing the depth and relevance of the site. Do email in your feedback.

ARTISAN VILLAGES:

Buddhist Sculpture and Painting

Southern Provinces

Luang Prabang Province

• Ban Xieng Mene (Located across the Mekong in the Chomphet district this village is a part of the World Heritage Site and makes for a wonderful walk.)

Other Provinces

• Ban Saphai

• Don Kho

Cane and Bamboo
Champassak Province

• Ban Mai Singsamphan

Khanmmouane Province

Luang Namtha Province

Other Provinces

• Ba Na

• Sam Nena

• Ban Mai

Handmade Paper:

Vientianne Province

Luang Prabang Province

• Ban Xieng Lek (known for posa paper making)

Luang Namtha Provinces

Jewelry

Bokeo Province

Luang Prabang Province

• Ban Vat That

Metal Casting

Luang Prabang Province

• Ban Hat Hian- It is one of the province’s better known blacksmith villages. Handmade knives and other agricultural tools are for sale here.

Musical Instruments

• Northern Provinces

Pottery

Luang Prabang Province

• Ban Chan – Located in the Chomphet District, this village is known for its traditional pottery making skills. If one spends time here,

• Ban Phanom – The village was a former royal weaving village. Today, it is possible to view women at the loom as they work and buy their products directly from them. The village is 4 kms. North of Luang Prabang.

Other Provinces

• Ban Thahine

• Attapeu

• Vientianne

Textiles

Champasak District

• Ban Saphai- This village has historically been the weaving capitol of this district.

Houaphan Province

(Hmong Batik, Indigo Dying)

Khammouane Province

• Konglor Village

• Natan Village

Luan Prabang District

• Ban Xieng Lek

• Ban Phanom

Odomaxay Province

• Ban Thin

Savannakhet Province

• Phutai textiles

Sayaboury Province

• Khop District

• Ngeum District

Xiengkhoung Province

• Ban Nonghet ( known for Hmong Batik and natural dying)

Other Provinces

• Don Kho

• Sam Nena

• Tong Jai Tai (Tai Dam Silk Weaving)

• Nam Ngaen (Tai Dam Silk Weaving)

• Namtha Valley ( Lanten and Akha Cotton, Tai Dam Silk, Lue Cotton, Yao and Hmong Embroidery)

• Sing District (Lue Cotton)

• Nale District (Lue Cotton)

• Pa-am, Attapeu

• Pakse

• Ban Natan

• Saravane

Wood Craft

• Champassak Province

MARKET PLACES

Houaphanh Province

• Xam Neua Market- consists of three markets which dot the town. The range of products including silk textiles and ethnic minority clothing.

Luang Prabang Province

Dong Palan- the night market – Open from 5 pm to 10 pm every day. Samples of textiles, pottery and jewelry are more easily found here, even though if you look carefully you can also find hand woven baskets. There is also a small lane with food stalls serving inexpensive local food.

The Chinese Market – It can be found across from the new stadium on the way to the bus station and is filled with a variety of household goods, clothing, hardware and luggage which are imported and sold by Chinese Merchants. This market is usually open till about 8 pm Phosi Market - Probably the largest market in Luang Prabang, the Phosi market has a whole range of products available from fresh produce and meat to household goods and clothing. It is easily accessible from town by bicycle or tuk-tuk. It is located near the Kuangsi Waterfall. Handicraft Market - On the corner from the Phousi Hotel and the Post Office, the Handicraft Market is open during the day. Post 5 pm, the same vendors can be found at the Dong Palan (the night market)

Vientianne Province

• Talat Sao – Located in the centre of town on Lane Xang Avenue this is the morning market in Vientianne.