Interview in a Village in Mon State, between Khin Lin Naing and elder, Daw Aye Mu (Shwe Chi weaving business). Interview translated by Khin Lin Naing (Pochi) with small edits by Dr Britta Boyer.

Photo courtesy of Shwe Chi weaving business

What is your business name? 

The name is Thu-ta-htun (Mon language) and in Myanmar, Shwe gyi. 

Do you produce natural thread & dye, Mon traditional clothing?  

Yes.

How many weavers do you have? 

Over 20. 

Are all women? 

2 are men. 

Do you use natural & chemical dyes?

Yes. 

Which material (ingredients) do you use for natural dye? 

Eastern gooseberry, Indian almond leaves, Turmeric, Sactui bark, Achiote. 

Plant specimens courtesy of Khin Lin Naing (Pochi) and graphic Issy Cheung

Which colours can you achieve with the natural dyes?

Achiote   -   Orange colour 

Eastern gooseberry – Gray colour 

Indian almond leaves – Yellow, green 

Turmeric – Yellow colour

Which type of products do you produce? 

Mon traditional longyi for men and women, natural dye clothes, fabric, shawls, table runner and   bags. Mostly we produce the products with natural dye. Chemical dye is used only for Mon traditional longyi. 

Photo courtesy of Shwe Chi weaving business

What are the working hours? 

Weavers live here and can weave in their own time.  

Where do you buy the threads (raw material)? 

We buy them from Amarapura Township (Mandalay). 

Do you set up the loom here? 

Yes, we can do all here.