Taizhou crafting tradition boasts global appeal

chinadaily.com.cn | Updated: 2024-08-13

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At Zhejiang Shunpu Arts & Crafts Co in Wenling, Taizhou, Zhejiang province, on Aug 12, exquisite straw hats were crafted after a series of processes.

Wenling straw weaving techniques are an intangible cultural heritage item in Zhejiang with a history of over 300 years. Craftsmen use materials like jute and bulrush to fashion practical items such as hats.

Mao Hairong, the company's administrative manager, proudly shared the company's success in blending tradition with modern trends. Its products are exported to countries and regions like Europe, the United States, Japan, and South Korea.

"The value of orders in the first half increased by 23.4 percent compared to last year, and orders are already scheduled through the end of the year," said Mao.

Meanwhile, ramie fabric products from Tiantai county are also enjoying popularity overseas. Tiantai Chengyi New Materials Co recently sent a shipment of bamboo curtain rolls made from ramie fabric to the Americas.

The ramie fabric production techniques are also a provincial intangible cultural heritage item. At Chengyi's workshops, workers make ramie fabric featuring classical Chinese elements like Chinese knots.

"Since certain Chinese elements are highly esteemed around the world, and ramie cloth is an environmentally friendly and renewable resource, our products have been well-received by international customers," said General Manager Xu Xiongwei. Curtains, tea mats, and place mats made from ramie cloth are especially popular in markets like Spain, the US, and Canada.

The harmonious blend of traditional culture and manufacturing prowess in Taizhou is not just about preserving history but also about propelling it onto the world stage, adding vibrancy to Taizhou's foreign trade.