Zhuang embroidery has a long history. Nearly every Zhuang woman begins to learn embroidery as a child. Besides beautifying clothing, embroidery is also used to decorate galluses, curtains and quilts. Skillful women use colourful threads to embroider varied traditional patterns on the edges of clothes, trousers, aprons, scarves or the surface of shoes. These beautiful handicrafts are the product of the embroiderers' imagination and skills rather than sample pictures and designs. However, all the patterns are arranged symmetrically with special meaning. Patterns with the meaning of good wishes, such as lotus, kylin (Chinese unicorn), gourd, coin, flower and some Chinese characters are often used and matched with varied geometric patterns. These handcrafts fully present the exquisite skills and wisdom and elegant taste of Zhuang women. |