Thailand · Surface Design / Natural Dye
ม้อฮ่อม (Mo Hom)
Mo Hom is the traditional indigo-dyed cotton cloth of Phrae province in northern Thailand — one of the few surviving natural indigo dyeing traditions in Southeast Asia. The cloth is dyed deep blue-black using the indigenous indigo plant (Indigofera tinctoria and related species cultivated in Phrae) through a fermentation vat process, then used as work clothing and everyday dress by the northern Thai farming communities. The Mo Hom garment — a loose collarless shirt — has become a symbol of northern Thai identity and is now prescribed as formal dress on specific days in Phrae province government offices. The dyeing process involves a live fermentation vat (ชาม — cham) maintained continuously, fed with fresh plant material, and carefully monitored over weeks. The vat is considered to have a living character — experienced dyers speak of 'reading' the vat's mood. GI Tag was granted by the Thai Department of Intellectual Property.
Risk level: Endangered · Not inscribed; GI Tag (Thai Department of Intellectual Property)
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