Azure and Ivory Shibori Tie-Dyed Cotton Skirt from Thailand, "Striking Shibori"

"I'm Pun Musu. I was born in the Northern Thai province of Phayao in 1961. My childhood was quite difficult. We lived in the country with no water supply or electricity. I studied in our small village school until fourth grade, then became a rice farmer, gardener and was self employed for more than thirty years before I moved to Chiang Mai in 2013.

"I moved to live with my grandchild, who introduced me to the art of dyeing cloth. I started to learn because I had free time and wanted to help my grandchild. I also took some workshops on the process of indigo dyeing to expand my knowledge.

"I use 100 percent cotton fabric which I buy from the market. I wash and iron it, then make my pattern by folding the cloth, tying and dyeing it with natural indigo. I carefully do each process by myself with the help of my grandchild, using only natural materials.

"In addition, I offer workshops for anyone who is interest in indigo dye to try it as a hobby.

"My inspiration comes from the natural environment and the patterns in nature. I try to make simple designs to let you feel cool and calm, not complicated, but beautiful.

"Today, I have one son and no husband. I still live with my grandchild and continue working in my textile arts. Besides the indigo-dyed apparel, I also make moon cakes to sell.

"My long-term goal is to continue selling my casual clothing designs as long as I can. I want this project to be my career to make a better living. I'm proud of every piece I create because I do it with my heart."