Stunning tribal ethnic Akha pillow, hand embroidered traditional textile, 17 in. square cushion, fair trade, purple, pink, green, orange, yellow, black AK8

Stunning tribal ethnic Akha pillow, hand embroidered traditional textile, 17 in. square cushion, fair trade, purple, pink, green, orange, yellow, black AK8

This pillow is part of a series we offer using traditional Akha hand embroidered textiles. My wife is Akha ethnic minority and all the front panel textiles are made in her family village in the mountains of Chiang Rai, Thailand, by her extended family and village members, specifically for Water Air Industry. Their incredible embroidery and sewing, in traditional Akha patterns, make for singular and unique artworks. By creating pillows from their fabric panels, the women artisans gain a functional and profitable outlet for their skills, helping to keep an important and foundational cultural aspect alive and relevant. This handiwork is done in spare time after the main farming work is done.

These embroidery techniques are customarily used on clothing, in the past worn everyday for all daily activities, but in modern times, mostly reserved for special occasions. The clothing and particular patterns are important calling cards of the Akha and each of the different Akha subsets will incorporate different patterns and colors.

This pillow is unique and one-of-a-kind. There is only one like it in the world and it will never be duplicated.

Monies from these sales go back to the makers in the village. Your support will help people and keep a rich tradition alive.

The back of the pillow is constructed from a handwoven hemp and cotton fabric in black indigo and tan threading. It has a silky but rugged hand-feel.

Pillow dimensions are 17 in. square. Because of the particular handmade/handwoven characteristics, dimensions are intended as plus or minus half an inch. 

This pillow has an interlining/fusing applied to the rear-side of both the front and back materials to maintain fabric integrity and smashing good looks, and a top-of-the-line, YKK-zippered, fill opening for strength and durability. In addition, all fabric joints have been serged/overlocked to properly seal the edges, prevent fraying, and provide a crisp, clean finish. The last photo(s) shows the professional finish of the inside of all our pillows.

This listing is for the pillowcase only and does not include an insert.

Note that the handwoven textiles used in this pillow may have some aberrations such as wonky threads or other anomalies in the weaving/embroidery.

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