Ban Kang Pla Thai Loei Fabric Weaving Group

The Thai Loei Ban Kang Pla Weaving Group is a community cotton-weaving cooperative run by Thai Loei (ไทเลย) women in Ban Kang Pla village, Chaiyaphruek subdistrict, about 3 km from Loei town on the main highway toward Chiang Khan. Cotton growing and handloom weaving have been the village’s primary occupation for generations, with skills passed down within families. The group’s signature is cotton cloth woven with silver and gold metallic thread — a pattern the community has developed into a recognised identity for Loei province textiles.

Visitors are welcome to watch weavers at their traditional wooden looms in the open courtyard, where work typically runs from around 09:00 to 16:00. The finished cloth is made into sarongs, shirts, dresses, scarves, and handbags, all available for purchase directly from the group. When the cooperative receives larger orders, multiple households in the village contribute to fulfil them, sharing the income among participants.

The workshop is straightforward to reach from Loei town — drive a few kilometres north on the Loei–Chiang Khan road and look for the turning on the right. Bring cash for purchases; buying directly supports the artisans. Entry is free.