Preserving the Unique Craft of Making Conical Hats: The Nung An Ethnic People
The conical hats made by the Nung An ethnic people are unlike any other in Vietnam. They have unique patterns, are made from special materials, and are crafted in a distinctive way. The hats are meticulously handcrafted using bamboo slats and bamboo/banana leaves. The bamboo used must be locally sourced and have a diameter of 5-8cm with a straight stem. The most crucial step in hat making is splitting the slats, a skill that requires precision and expertise. Skilled artisans never use a knife for this task. Once split, the bamboo slats are woven into a double-layered frame, with an outer and inner layer. The outer layer of the frame is intricately woven by the craftsman, as it greatly impacts the final appearance of the hat. The bamboo leaves used for the hats are carefully selected, bundled together, and naturally dried until they turn brown and develop the desired strength. Longer bamboo leaves are used for the middle layer of the...