In Shannan, Tibet, a cooperative is working to keep alive the centuries-old tradition of weaving Pulu, a traditional woolen fabric native to the Tibetan plateau. The Ethnic Huaji Handwoven Cooperative, founded in 2008 by artisan Pasang, employs over 100 local residents, including individuals with disabilities, and provides training for younger Tibetans in a craft Pasang feared was disappearing.
The cooperative specializes in Zeter, a finer, more delicate variety of Pulu made from soft wool sourced from sheep raised near Shannan, at altitudes of about 3,700 meters (12,100 feet). According to Pasang, this finer wool requires more difficult spinning techniques than that used for ordinary Pulu. Historically, Zeter's lightness and softness led to it being presented as a tribute from Tibet to the Chinese imperial court during the Ming dynasty.
Pasang learned the weaving craft from his parents, at a time when fewer than 10 people still possessed the skill to weave Zeter. The craft has since been recognized as part of China’s national intangible cultural heritage. Local tradition attributes the origins of the weaving craft to Princess Wencheng, who is said to have introduced weaving techniques to Tibet after marrying Tibet's 7th-century King Songtsen Gampo. Their marriage is historically viewed as symbolizing the integration of Tibetan and Chinese cultures.
The cooperative features a small showroom displaying items such as scarves, shawls, jackets, and bags made from Pulu and Zeter. While most sales occur within Tibet, the cooperative also serves customers from other parts of China. Tsering Yangchen, an 80-year-old woman who joined the cooperative seven years ago, found work there after moving from another county. She learned the weaving techniques at the workshop, highlighting that for her, Pulu is more than just a product—it is a part of their daily wear, made from pure wool.