This attractive cross-over purse is handcrafted by women artisans in Thailand from cotton batik fabric. The front is embellished with tassels and beads. The contrast between the different fabrics is very eye-catching.

The making of this intricate art (batik) is done by Hmong hill tribe women of Northern Thailand. Using large copper blocks, they stamp hot wax designs onto cotton cloths. Making wax outlines allow the dye to dye only the areas without wax. The fabric and wax is then dipped in indigo and other dyes to create the beautiful color. It is then boiled to remove the wax and the final product is what you see here!

Today it is believed that certain patterns have special meanings and are thought to bring the wearer good luck, wealth, prosperity, health, etc.