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Silk : The most famous of all of Thailand’s handicrafts, silk is available in a range of colors, patterns and plies. It is sold by the yard, or as ready-made clothing and souvenir items. A unique type of Thai silk is ‘mudmee’, a tie-dye silk traditional to the country’s Northeast region. The best known outlet for Thai silk is undoubtedly Jim Thompson’s, although it is widely available in Bangkok. |
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Clothing : Thailand is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of ready-to-wear clothing. Fashion boutiques are found in every shopping mall, while cheaper clothing such as T-shirts and jeans are available at roadside stalls. Custom tailored suits, shirts and dresses are very affordable and in various signature styles. |
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Cotton and Batik : Thai cottons have become increasingly popular and are a good deal. Particularly notable are the hilltribe cottons woven by the tribal people of the North, typically displaying bold designs and often lavish embroidery. Equally distinctive are original batiks crafted at several studios in Bangkok. |
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Gem : Bangkok is the colored gemstone capital of the world. Rubies and sapphires are indigenous stones, but virtually all colored gems, as well as diamonds, are available. To avoid any problem, buy only from reputable dealers. |
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Pewterware : Pewter is fashioned with great skill by Thai craftsmen, and the smooth, silky finish of this attractive alloy is enhanced by delicate relief decoration. Pewterware items include plates, boxes, vases and pocket flasks. |
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Antiques : Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer antiques are excellent buys. There is an export ban on certain pieces, particularly Buddha images. Other pieces may require an export license, but any reputable dealer will be able to advice on restrictions and any necessary documentation. |
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Ceramics : both traditional and contemporary styles of pottery are available throughout the kingdom. Best known are the distinctive sea-green celadons from the Sukothai area, and the central provinces’ colorful Benjarong (five color) porcelain, which are unique to the country. |
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Nielloware : Practiced in the south for hundreds of years, nielloware is the craft of decorating gold and silver objects with delicate etched designs filled with a metal ware. Nielloware trays, boxes, vases and other items are some of the country’s best buys. |
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Lacquerware : A specialty of Chiang-Mai and the North, this craft involves coating split bamboo or wood with lacquer, then adding intricate hand-painted designs typically gold-on-black lacquer or yellow and green on a red brown background. Look out for lacquerware bowls, boxes, trays and other items for decoration or for souvenirs. |
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Thai Orchids : The country is famous for its huge colors and durable beauty make them a popular purchase. Specially packaged flowers, complete with water supply, are available at flower shops catering to tourists. |
