The intricacy of this profession is shown through every stage, especially the preparation of raw materials and completion time:
- Unique material: The hammock is made entirely from the bark of the red parasol tree (also known as mountain parasol) that grows on the mountain slopes of Cu Lao Cham. The parasol tree is the symbol of this island.
- Elaborate processing:
- People have to choose straight, smooth trees, and only cut across the base so the tree can continue to grow.
- The bark is peeled off, then carefully soaked in water in a stream ( about half a month in summer, more than 20 days in winter ) to soften and toughen the bark.
- After soaking, the bark is scooped up, the opaque white inner layer (called the tung fiber) is removed, then shredded into small strands and dried until pure white. The thinner the strands, the tighter and more durable the hammock will be when woven.
- Time and attention to detail:
- A hammock woven entirely by hand .
- To weave a hammock, the craftsman must spend at least 2 months (about 60-90 days of continuous work), not including the time to prepare the materials (more than 1 month). A fast and skilled craftsman can only weave about 5-6 hammocks per year.
- Value and uses:
- The hammock is very sturdy and durable , can be used for 10-15 years if well preserved.
- They are also known for their special uses such as helping to treat rheumatism, night sweats, and bringing good sleep.
- With such effort, each hammock has a quite high price, usually from 5 million to more than 8 million VND depending on the type (4-string hammock or 6-string hammock).
The profession of weaving hammocks from parasol trees is not only a livelihood but also contains cultural values, perseverance, patience and love of nature and the sea of the people of Cu Lao Cham.
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