Silk Weaving & Handicrafts

Thai silk is world-renowned — heavier, shinier, and more vibrant than Chinese or Japanese silk. The rediscovery and marketing of Thai silk is closely linked to one of the most fascinating mysteries of the 20th century.

Jim Thompson — The Silk King

The American businessman and former CIA agent Jim Thompson discovered the beauty of the nearly forgotten Thai silk weaving in the 1950s and built an empire. His teak house on Khlong Saen Saep in Bangkok (now the Jim Thompson House Museum) is one of the city's top attractions — a collection of Southeast Asian art in an atmospheric ensemble of traditional Thai houses.

In 1967, Thompson disappeared without a trace during a walk in the Cameron Highlands (Malaysia). Despite a massive search operation, he was never found — to this day, one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of the region.

Where to Buy & Experience Thai Silk

• Isan: The provinces of Surin and Khon Kaen are the heart of silk weaving. In many villages, you can watch weavers at work. Mudmee silk (silk dyed using the ikat technique) is the most elaborate and expensive variant.
• Bangkok: Jim Thompson Shops (high-quality, fair trade), Chatuchak Weekend Market (cheaper qualities), Pahurat (Little India — fabric market).
• Chiang Mai: San Kamphaeng (Silk Road east of the city) — here you can see the entire production from caterpillar to finished fabric.

Other Handicrafts

• Celadon Ceramics: Celadon green glaze on stoneware — a tradition from the Sukhothai era. Best purchased in Chiang Mai (Baan Celadon).
• Lacquer and Gold Work: Black lacquer work with gold leaf (Lai Rod Nam) — on cabinets, temple doors, manuscript containers.
• Silver Jewelry: The Karen and Hmong hill tribes in northern Thailand create exquisite silver jewelry — best bought directly in the villages around Chiang Mai (more authentic and fairer than in tourist shops).
• Wood Carving: Teak furniture and figures from Chiang Mai are world-famous. Note: Exporting antiques (over 100 years) and Buddha statues is prohibited without permission!