A talk by Jim Holmes
In October 2026 the Guild members were given a very entertaining talk by Jim Holmes. Jim used to work as a documentary photographer for humanitarian agencies in Asia, mostly in Laos, and lived in Laos for many years. He became interested in the textiles he saw and the way their designs and techniques have grown out of local materials and communities. His talk was illustrated with many images from different areas, focussing on Laos.
There was something for everyone: he talked about and showed examples of spinning, dyeing and especially weaving. Cotton, hemp and silk are all grown in Laos, and Jim showed us how they are processed and had brought fabrics using them all. He only buys new or everyday items, leaving the antique and heirloom textiles in their country of origin. We learned about the culture of the Laotian people in remote villages and how the women still wear traditional clothes, such as Sinh skirts with their separately woven patterned, colourful borders. Members were impressed by the intricate patterns woven on very simple looms and we saw fabrics with scenes from everyday life woven into them, being especially fascinated by the elephants.
We all thoroughly enjoyed this talk from someone so enthusiastic and passionate about traditional textiles and culture from, in particular, Laos. After many questions, we also appreciated the opportunity to buy some of the fabrics Jim had brought.
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