FABRIC: YATHRA SHEEP WOOL

Fabric Name:
Yathra Sheep Wool

Origin:
Jakar sheep, 100% baby wool-locally sourced from highland village of Bumthang

Who made our fabric:
Green Weaving Center

Natural history and ecology:
Bumthang is renowned for its wool weaving traditions, the Yathra weaves. Our fabric collection features pieces made of 100% baby wool, locally sourced from the highland villages of Bumthang. The Yathra technique involves hand-embroidering wool threads over woven wool to create intricate tribal patterns. Unfortunately, sheep rearing in the region has declined due to migration. To address this, the Bhutanese government established the National Small Ruminants Research and Development Centre in 1974-1975. Located in Dechenpelrithang, Bumthang, the center rears around sheep, including Jakar, Sakten, Sipsoo breeds, and imported sheep from Australia.

What makes this so special: This heritage fabric not only represents the rich cultural tapestry of Bhutan but also highlights the efforts to sustain traditional sheep rearing practices through the country. The unique techniques and dedication to preserving these traditions make Bumthang’s wool weaving special.