Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women
Learn traditional Lao fabric dyeing and weaving, empowering women through craft. Create unique souvenirs and support a vital social mission.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women
Best Time
Freshest start to your day
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Learn traditional Lao fabric dyeing and weaving, empowering women through craft. Create unique souvenirs and support a vital social mission.
"A wonderful, rewarding experience supporting disadvantaged women through traditional Lao arts."
Confirm Pricing & Transport
Double-check workshop fees and transport costs when booking to avoid misunderstandings. :moneybag:
Patience with Language
While staff are helpful, some language barriers may exist. Be patient and use gestures if needed. :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Fabric Dyeing Workshop
Dyeing workshop area
Learn to create vibrant colors using natural ingredients like onion peels. Take home your own beautifully dyed scarf!
Traditional Silk Weaving
Weaving workshop area
Master the art of weaving intricate patterns on a wooden loom. Create your own unique piece of Lao textile art.
Meet the Skilled Artisans
On-site weaving facility
Observe talented weavers crafting detailed designs. Witness the dedication and skill behind traditional Lao textiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Workshop in Advance
Support a Great Cause
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Pricing & Transport
Double-check workshop fees and transport costs when booking to avoid misunderstandings. :moneybag:
Patience with Language
While staff are helpful, some language barriers may exist. Be patient and use gestures if needed. :speech_balloon:
Wear Comfortable Clothes
You'll be working with dyes and looms, so wear something you don't mind getting a little messy. :tshirt:
Great for Souvenirs
Create a custom souvenir or purchase beautiful textiles directly from the artisans. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Pricing & Transport
Double-check workshop fees and transport costs when booking to avoid misunderstandings. :moneybag:
Patience with Language
While staff are helpful, some language barriers may exist. Be patient and use gestures if needed. :speech_balloon:
Wear Comfortable Clothes
You'll be working with dyes and looms, so wear something you don't mind getting a little messy. :tshirt:
Great for Souvenirs
Create a custom souvenir or purchase beautiful textiles directly from the artisans. :gift:
Suitable for Most Ages
Younger kids might struggle with looms, but dyeing is fun for all. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Houey Hong for its rewarding workshops in natural dyeing and traditional weaving, highlighting the opportunity to learn valuable skills and create unique souvenirs. The center's mission to empower disadvantaged women is a significant draw, making it a feel-good experience. While minor communication or pricing discrepancies have been noted, they are generally resolved amicably, and the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
"A great option for a day trip from Vientiane. Try your hand at fabric dyeing using all natural dyes made in the traditional Laos way. Learn to make your own natural dyes. Tour the small on-site weaving facility to watch the skilled weavers create intricate designs. Learn to weave a simple pattern in the specially designed weaving workshop area. Suitable for all ages, although younger children may not be able to operate the looms in the weaving workshop if they cannot reach the foot pedal. They will have a fantastic time doing the dyeing workshop though."
Renusha Parkin
"I took a half day course on dyeing and weaving and it was really worth it! I paid 400k kip and got to keep the dyed scarf and the piece of fabric that I managed to weave. The lady was patient and explained well. Highly recommend! Perfect also to get a custom souvenir while supporting this activity"
Maddalena Bin
"One of the best things to do in Vientiane, Laos is a 1/2 to 3 day workshop at this NGO where you are taught the ancient Laos traditional art for either or both dyeing with natural products e.g. onion peel or silk weaving on a wooden loom.
Such a wonderful, rewarding experience in a truly tranquil location just 7 km from the town. Houey Hong Center can arrange a private taxi service for a pick up from the centre of Vientiane.
This centre has trained more than 830 Laos women and girls from disadvantaged or rural backgrounds since 1998. They have been taught the art of dyeing, weaving and sewing from 1-6 months, both empowering and inspiring them to become great employees, leaders or successful business owners.
With their lovely welcoming, friendly and helpful staff. I wish to highly recommend the Houey Hong Center! 10 out of 10!"
Merinda Hewat-Cameron
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The center is located about 7 km from Vientiane. They can arrange a private taxi service for pickup from your Vientiane hotel, which is a convenient option. Confirm the cost of this transport when booking your workshop.
While not explicitly mentioned, private transport is common. If you are driving yourself, inquire about parking availability when you make your reservation.
Ride-sharing apps might be available in Vientiane, but pre-arranging transport with the center is often more reliable and can be bundled with your workshop fee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Workshop prices can vary. One reviewer mentioned paying 400,000 kip for a half-day dyeing and weaving course, while another noted a quoted price of 220,000 kip for a weaving session. It's crucial to confirm the exact price when booking.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your workshops in advance to secure your spot, especially for dyeing and weaving sessions. Making a reservation was easy for one visitor.
Typically, the fee includes the materials for your chosen craft and you get to keep what you create, such as a dyed scarf or a woven fabric piece.
Workshops are generally held during the day. It's best to inquire about specific timings when you book, as they can accommodate morning or afternoon sessions.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Support
Yes, you can purchase beautiful, intricately designed textiles directly from the center. It's a great way to get a unique souvenir and support the women's training.
Absolutely. Your participation in workshops and any purchases made directly contribute to the center's mission of empowering disadvantaged women through traditional Lao arts.
While not explicitly stated, given the nature of the center, custom orders for specific designs or items might be possible. It's worth inquiring directly about this possibility.
🎫 🎨 Craft Experience
In the dyeing workshop, you'll learn to create natural dyes from ingredients like onion peels and then apply them to fabric, often a scarf. It's a hands-on experience where you create your own colorful textile.
The weaving workshop teaches you the traditional Lao method of silk weaving on a wooden loom. You'll learn to create simple patterns and weave your own piece of fabric to take home.
While younger children can enjoy the dyeing workshop, they might find it difficult to operate the looms in the weaving workshop if they cannot reach the foot pedals.
Workshops can range from half-day sessions to longer courses of 1-3 days, depending on what you wish to learn and the depth of the craft you want to explore.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a wonderful opportunity for families to learn about traditional Lao crafts together, support a meaningful cause, and create personalized souvenirs. The tranquil setting and the patient guidance from the instructors make it a relaxed and enjoyable outing. Remember to confirm pricing and transport arrangements when booking to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
🎨 Craft Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers
Beyond the workshops, the center's mission to empower women adds a layer of social consciousness to the experience. Engaging with the artisans and understanding the impact of your participation makes this more than just a craft class; it's a connection to a community and a cultural tradition. Consider booking a longer workshop if you want to delve deeper into these ancient arts.
🎁 Travelers Seeking Unique Souvenirs
Alternatively, you can purchase beautiful, handcrafted textiles directly from the center. These items are made with skill and care by the women undergoing training, and your purchase directly supports their empowerment. It’s a way to bring home a piece of authentic Lao artistry while contributing to a worthy cause.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Natural Dyeing
This process is not just about color; it's about sustainability and respecting the environment. By using natural dyes, the center promotes eco-friendly practices. The patient instructors guide you through each step, ensuring that even beginners can achieve beautiful results. It’s a rewarding experience that highlights the beauty and versatility of natural pigments.
Mastering Traditional Lao Weaving
Participants can expect to weave a simple pattern during their session, resulting in a tangible piece of fabric as a memento of their learning. While the process requires focus and coordination, the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own hands is immense. It’s a chance to not only learn a new skill but also to connect with a significant aspect of Lao cultural heritage.
Empowering Women Through Craft
The training programs are designed to be comprehensive, ranging from one to six months, and aim to equip participants with the confidence and expertise to become successful employees, leaders, or entrepreneurs. By supporting Houey Hong, visitors contribute directly to this vital mission, fostering self-reliance and preserving traditional craftsmanship for future generations. The welcoming and helpful staff further enhance the positive impact of the center.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit