One of the areas oldest industries is oddly Umbrella making not for the rain but for the sun protection, being we are mostly a hot climate the rains do not worry one so much but the hot sun darkens the skin and Thai people but much respect for the fairer skinned ladies so most Chiang Mai ladies used to protect their skin from the sun not with UV creams or heavy powder like are Burmese neighbors but with colorful umbrellas.
The frame work is handmade out of bamboo and the covering is made from paper made out of Mulberry tree bark. It can be as large as a patio Umbrella or a parasol size one for the walks to the market.
The main market for the Umbrella today is the decorative or tourist market as well as for special events like temple parties or weddings.
If you wish to head towards Sankapang you will pas Borang where they are still made today and also you will pass by Baan Tong Poa on the right side of the road where the Saa or mulberry paper si made. both are worth a visit.You can have any items personalized bythe painters of the Umbrellas, it is a n extra way for the people to earn some small pocket money, on the side.
