The Story Behind Embroidered Bags: Honouring Traditional Chinese Handcraft
Swallowscope’s embroidered bags are the result of incredible craftsmanship by skilled artisans, preserving traditional Chinese techniques that have been passed down for generations. These bags, inspired by 香囊 (fragrance sachets), represent a rich cultural history and the immense labor and time involved in their creation.
Every part of these bags is handmade by artisans. From spinning the silk threads to braiding the cords of Chinese knots, weaving the fabric, and embroidering the designs, the process reflects a deep commitment to traditional craft. The bags are made entirely of silk—including the fabric, cords, lining, and embroidery.
The fabric used, 缂丝 (Ke Si), is a type of silk tapestry known for its intricate and labor-intensive production. Often called “carved silk,” Ke Si is rare today due to the immense effort required to produce it. Historically, this fabric was reserved for imperial use, often for the emperor’s clothing. When China began exporting handcrafts, Ke Si found a place in Japan, where it was used for kimonos and traditional accessories. Today, Ke Si fabric for bags often comes from leftover rolls in weaving workshops, making it an even more precious resource. Despite its delicate origins, the density of Ke Si makes these bags durable and long lasting.
The embroidery is done using 打籽绣 (Da Zi Xiu), a technique that creates patterns from tiny, circular knots of silk. This detailed work is carried out by artisans specialising in this method of embroidery, and this technique adds a unique texture and depth to the designs. As the patterns vary across the fabric roll, each bag is unique, featuring a distinct section of embroidery.
The hanging Chinese knots and cords are also made from silk. What appears to be thick, robust cords are actually composed of fine silk strands, hand-braided to create durable and beautiful components. These are then shaped into intricate knots and straps by specialists, adding a distinctive touch to each bag.
The final step involves cutting and sewing the Ke Si fabric by hand. This careful assembly ensures each bag is not only functional but also a piece of art. By sharing their history and the immense labor behind them, Swallowscope aims to preserve these techniques for future generations. Each bag tells a story of skill, patience, and artistry—a story worth sharing and cherishing.
