Weaving Lotus Fibers

History of Lotus Fiber

Lotus silk, originating in Myanmar’s Inle Lake, was invented by Sa Oo in the 1900s. Made from Padonma kya lotus stems, it’s eco-friendly, rare, and labor-intensive, requiring 4,000 stems for one meter of fabric.

Renowned for its silk-like texture, antibacterial properties, and cultural ties to Buddhism, it’s among the world’s most luxurious textiles. Celebrated during Myanmar’s Tazaungdaing festival, lotus silk embodies sustainable craftsmanship and spiritual heritage.

Harvesting the Lotus Plant

Artisans carefully select the Padonmar Kya (a pink double-layered lotus), a specific type of lotus known for its long, fibrous stems. The lotus stems are harvested at the peak of their maturity, ensuring optimal fiber quality. 


Types of Lotus Fiber

  1. Seed Head Lotus Fiber:

    • Harvested from the seed pods of lotus flowers using traditional methods.

  2. Stem Lotus Fiber:

    • Extracted from the long, thin stems of lotus plants.

    • Provides a softer texture when blended with seed head fibers.

From Lotus Stem to Golden Thread

Creating thread from lotus stems is a labor-intensive process requiring both skill and patience. Artisans carefully cut the lotus stems into sections before meticulously extracting the fine, nearly invisible fibers hidden within. This involves scoring, twisting, and pulling the stems until the delicate filaments are revealed.

These fragile threads are then carefully rolled together, adding new fibers as they are extracted, to form a continuous, stronger thread. This painstaking work yields approximately 20 meters of thread per day. The finished product has a beautiful, natural color similar to hemp, but with a much softer texture. This unique thread is typically left undyed to showcase its natural qualities.

Weaving the Fabric

Weaving lotus fabric is a delicate art, transforming the painstakingly extracted threads into a luxurious textile. Skilled artisans use traditional looms, often working in humid conditions to keep the fragile fibers pliable.

The threads, with their subtle sheen, are carefully interlaced to create a lightweight and breathable fabric renowned for its softness and drape.

This intricate process results in a rare and exquisite cloth, prized for its unique beauty and the dedication of its creators.

The Rare and Exquisite Fabric of Nature

Lotus silk is a rare and precious fabric made from the delicate fibers of the lotus plant. Known for its exceptional softness, natural luster, and breathability, lotus silk is a symbol of luxury and a testament to the artistry of skilled artisans. Its rarity and unique properties ensure its place as a highly prized material.