Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles: A Weaver's Paradise
Experience the exquisite artistry of Lao silk weaving at Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles in Vientiane. A cultural gem showcasing tradition and innovation.
Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles, located in a charming French colonial mansion in Vientiane, is a celebration of Lao silk weaving tradition. Founded in 1990 by American weaver Carol Cassidy, the workshop has played a vital role in reviving and contemporizing this intricate art form. Cassidy, who arrived in Laos in 1989 as a textile expert with the United Nations Development Programme, discovered a "weaver's paradise" in the country's rich history of weaving and elaborate design motifs. Today, Lao Textiles produces museum-quality textiles that blend traditional Lao patterns with contemporary designs. The workshop employs around 40 Lao artisans, primarily women, who hand-weave silk into exquisite wall hangings, scarves, shawls, and custom furnishing fabrics. The pieces are displayed in galleries and museums worldwide, including The Textile Museum in Washington, D.C., and The Philadelphia Museum of Art. Visitors to the workshop can observe the intricate process of silk weaving and learn about the traditional techniques used by the artisans. The hand-crafted pieces are labors of love; wall hangings often take months to complete, with only centimeters woven per day on the most complex designs. Carol Cassidy's dedication extends beyond the loom, nurturing a community, providing livelihoods, and keeping a heritage alive for future generations.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays to see the weavers in action, as the workshop is closed on weekends.
- Allow ample time to browse the gallery, as there is a wide array of beautiful textiles to admire and purchase.
- Consider purchasing a hand-woven silk scarf or shawl as a unique and meaningful souvenir of your visit to Laos.
A brief summary to Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles
- 123 Rue Nokeokoummane, Vientiane, LA
- +85621212123
Getting There
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Walking
Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles is located on Rue Nokeokoummane, a street off the main tourist drag in Vientiane, making it easily accessible by foot from many central locations. From Wat Ong Teu, walk west along Sethathirath Road, then turn left onto Rue Nokeokoummane. The workshop is a short distance down the street on the left.
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Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are a readily available mode of transport in Vientiane. Simply flag one down and tell the driver you wish to go to Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles on Rue Nokeokoummane. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as tuk-tuks do not have meters. A short ride from the city center should cost around 20,000-30,000 LAK.
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Taxi
Taxis can be found at the airport, bus terminals, and popular tourist spots. Alternatively, you can use the LOCA app to book a taxi. A taxi ride from the city center to Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles should cost approximately 47,500 LAK. Note that card payments are rarely accepted, so it's best to have Lao Kip on hand.
