Historic Handicraft Villages (from Chiang Mai City)

Chiang Mai has long been known as Thailand's City of Handicrafts, and in the Sankamphaeng district of Chiangmai is the heart of the handicraft industry. Many of Thailand's major producers are located here and you will find all of the traditional crafts of the old days and the new in the shops along the Chiangmai - Sankampaeng Road. Lacquer-ware: This ancient art form of decorating wooden objects with many layers of black lacquer provides a combination of beauty and practicality. Silk and textiles: Thailand is famous worldwide for its fine, pure silk and Chiang Mai produces some of the finest. You can select readymade products or have an arrangement for your own tailoring. Hand-woven and ethnic textile designs for the collector are also offered. Woodcarving: Another feature that you don't want to miss is the woodcarving industry. The skilled craftsmen are professional experts in carving fine teakwood in reliefs, statuary, and furniture. A wide range of handcrafted souvenirs is also available. Umbrella making: Borsang has been the traditional center of Chiang Mai's famous umbrella and fan making. Here the hand-painted wares are made of delicate "Sa" paper and are available in many designs and colors. Silverware and Gems: Silversmithing in Chiangmai began centuries ago along Wualai Road, an area still known as the Silver village. Traditional items such as trays, bowls and boxes are on sale, precious stones and high quality jewelry can be bought at Gems Gallery.