The craft of making baskets in Phu My Village

The craft of making bamboo baskets in Phu My village, An Dan commune, Phu Yen province (now Tuy An Bac commune, Dak Lak province) has a long tradition. This place produces bamboo baskets for fishermen to go to sea to catch seafood.

Oiling the otter - a step in the traditional basket boat production process. Photo: PHAM HUNG

The waterproofing technique using cow dung and otter oil has been passed down from generation to generation, helping the baskets have a beautiful color and resist termites. This special waterproofing layer can be used in a seawater environment for 4-5 years. If the baskets are torn, they can be brought back and patched. Photo: NGUYEN TRINH

Boat makers need to choose bamboo trees that are between one and one and a half years old, not too young and not too old, because that way the boat's hull will be durable. Photo: NGUYEN TRINH

The key step is making the bottom of the basket. The bamboo is thinly shaved and woven tightly together. Photo: NGUYEN TRINH

When the basket is completed, the worker will use fresh cow dung mixed with water to plaster both sides. This method is to seal the gaps between the bamboo slats. After two layers of dry cow dung, continue to apply two layers of otter oil to complete the basket. Photo: NGUYEN TRINH

The bottles made here are also exported to a number of countries because of their durability and competitive prices. Photo: NGUYEN TRINH

Local people say that making bamboo baskets is not only a way to earn a living but also a source of pride in preserving the traditional craft that has been passed down for many generations. Photo: NGUYEN TRINH

To make a bamboo basket, a craftsman must go through many stages including: splitting bamboo, shaving bamboo, weaving bamboo mats, rigging, cracking and oiling. Photo: PHAM HUNG

Source: https://baodanang.vn/nghe-lam-thung-chai-o-lang-phu-my-3308312.html