Proud villagers of Từ Vân showcase their flag-making skills
In the heart of Vietnam, nestled 30km south of Hà Nội, lies Từ Vân Village, a place steeped in history and tradition. Known for its skilled craftsmen, the village has been a centre of embroidery and cloth weaving since the 16th century[4]. However, it is the flag-making tradition that has truly put Từ Vân on the map.
This historic flag-making tradition dates back to August 1945, when local tailors were commissioned to produce yellow star red flags for the Việt Nam League for Independence during the revolution[1][2]. The craft has been preserved and passed down through three or four generations of families in the village, maintaining meticulous standards to comply with state regulations[1][2].
The flag-making process involves several careful steps:
- Selecting high-quality muslin fabric sourced from neighbouring La Khê Village in Hà Đông Ward, with other flag components coming from Triều Khúc Village[1].
- Cutting the fabric to the precise dimensions required for the national flag[1].
- The most crucial step is matching and embroidering the star onto the red flag, which typically takes skilled artisans about two to three days, while beginners can take up to a week[1][2].
Flags created include national flags, Communist Party flags, and red banners and posters for festivals, holidays, academic years, and national celebrations like National Day (September 2) and the August Revolution anniversary (August 19)[1][3].
In modern times, Từ Vân’s workshops and households produce tens of thousands of flags annually, employing both hand embroidery and machine production to meet demand, especially before major national holidays[3][5]. This craft continues to be a source of local pride and a stable income for many villagers, and the tradition remains a vibrant part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage[1][2][4].
The village's skilled craftsmen have made millions of flags for special occasions, including those flown during the Declaration of Independence in 1945[1]. Today, these national flags made by Từ Vân villagers are sold in shops throughout Việt Nam.
Despite the passage of time, the tradition of flag-making in Từ Vân Village continues to thrive. It is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the villagers who have preserved this historic craft and passed it down through generations. The village's flag-making tradition is a symbol of the village's pride, a source of income, and a vibrant part of Vietnam's cultural heritage.
The historic flag-making tradition in Từ Vân Village, alive since 1945, has extended its influence into the fashion-and-beauty sector, as the flags produced are now sold in shops across Vietnam. This prosperity, coupled with the meticulous craftsmanship passed down through generations, has evidently enhanced the villagers' lifestyle. Moreover, the skilful artisans of the village have ventured into creating unique textiles, blurring the lines between home-and-garden décor and the classic Italian ai flag, giving a touch of Từ Vân's rich history to contemporary home interiors.
