Thai Traditional Crafts
From lustrous Thai silk to intricate Benjarong porcelain, Thailand's handicrafts represent centuries of artistic mastery. Discover authentic souvenirs and support local artisans.
1000+
Years of Tradition
All Thai Crafts
20 crafts to explore. Each piece represents generations of artistic tradition.
Thai Silk
ผ้าไหมไทย
World-renowned hand-woven silk with distinctive sheen and vibrant colors, revived by Jim Thompson.
Real Thai silk has a distinctive smell when burned and feels slightly rough to touch
Mudmee (Ikat) Silk
ผ้ามัดหมี่
Traditional tie-dye silk from Isaan with intricate geometric patterns passed down through generations.
Visit Chonnabot district in Khon Kaen for the best selection and workshops
Hand-Woven Cotton
ผ้าฝ้ายทอมือ
Natural cotton textiles from Northern Thailand featuring traditional Lanna patterns and natural dyes.
Look for OTOP 5-star ratings for quality assurance
Benjarong Porcelain
เบญจรงค์
Exquisite five-color porcelain with intricate hand-painted designs, originally made for Thai royalty.
Visit Don Kai Dee village to see artisans at work and buy direct
Celadon Pottery
เซลาดอน
Elegant green-glazed stoneware with distinctive crackle finish, a Northern Thai specialty.
Authentic celadon has a distinctive ring when tapped
Sangkhalok Ceramics
สังคโลก
Ancient Sukhothai-era pottery with distinctive designs, revived using traditional techniques.
Visit the ancient kiln sites at Si Satchanalai Historical Park
Teak Wood Carving
งานแกะสลักไม้
Intricate hand-carved teak furniture, panels, and sculptures showcasing Northern Thai artistry.
Ban Tawai has hundreds of shops and can arrange international shipping
Spirit Houses
ศาลพระภูมิ
Ornate miniature temples crafted as homes for protective spirits, found throughout Thailand.
Spirit houses are typically installed with a ceremony by a Brahmin priest
Nielloware (Kruang Tom)
เครื่องถม
Southern Thai silver inlay art with black alloy designs, a 400-year-old craft from Nakhon.
Look for the "Royal Nielloware" certification for authentic pieces
Hill Tribe Silver
เครื่องเงินชาวเขา
Handcrafted silver jewelry by Karen and Hmong artisans featuring unique tribal designs.
Pure hill tribe silver bends easily - this is normal and indicates authenticity
Bronze Buddha Statues
พระพุทธรูปสำริด
Sacred bronze statues cast using ancient lost-wax technique by master craftsmen.
Buddha images should be placed respectfully and never below waist level
Lacquerware
เครื่องเขิน
Black and red lacquered items decorated with gold leaf, a signature Chiang Mai craft.
Quality lacquerware has many layers and won't crack or peel
Sa Paper (Mulberry Paper)
กระดาษสา
Handmade paper from mulberry bark used for lanterns, fans, and decorative items.
Watch artisans make paper at Sa Paper & Umbrella Handicraft Center
Borsang Parasols
ร่มบ่อสร้าง
Hand-painted paper umbrellas from Bo Sang village, each a unique work of art.
Visit in January for the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival
Bamboo & Rattan Weaving
จักสาน
Traditional woven baskets, furniture, and household items using sustainable materials.
Water hyacinth items are eco-friendly and help control invasive plants
Fruit & Vegetable Carving
การแกะสลักผักผลไม้
Intricate carving art transforming fruits and vegetables into stunning edible sculptures.
Take a fruit carving class - it's a unique Thai experience!
Khon Masks
หัวโขน
Elaborate papier-mâché masks used in classical Khon dance performances.
Authentic masks are made by certified artisans - look for certification
Yan Lipao (Fern Weaving)
ย่านลิเภา
Southern Thai craft weaving glossy fern vines into beautiful handbags and accessories.
Authentic yan lipao has a natural sheen and tight, even weave
Mulberry Silk Scarves
ผ้าพันคอไหม
Luxurious hand-dyed silk scarves in vibrant colors, perfect souvenirs.
Check the burn test - real silk smells like burning hair
Dan Kwian Pottery
เครื่องปั้นดินเผาด่านเกวียน
Rustic terracotta pottery from Korat known for its distinctive rust-red color.
The village has dozens of shops - compare prices and quality
Where to Buy Authentic Crafts
Find genuine Thai handicrafts at these recommended destinations. Always look for OTOP certification for quality assurance.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
BangkokWorld's largest weekend market with thousands of stalls selling crafts, antiques, and souvenirs.
Best for: Everything - overwhelming selection at great prices
Ban Tawai Handicraft Village
Chiang MaiMassive craft village with hundreds of shops specializing in wood carvings and furniture.
Best for: Woodcarvings, furniture, home decor
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Chiang MaiDaily night market with extensive handicraft selection and good bargaining opportunities.
Best for: Hill tribe crafts, textiles, souvenirs
Jim Thompson House & Shop
BangkokPremium Thai silk and home accessories with guaranteed quality.
Best for: High-quality silk, gifts
OTOP Stores
NationwideGovernment-certified local products from every province, ensuring authenticity.
Best for: Authentic regional crafts with quality guarantee
Bo Sang Umbrella Village
Chiang MaiFamous village dedicated to hand-painted parasols and sa paper products.
Best for: Parasols, paper products, fans
Smart Shopping Tips
Look for OTOP
OTOP certification guarantees authentic local products with quality standards.
Test Thai Silk
Real silk smells like burning hair when tested with flame - ask for a thread test.
Bargain Politely
At markets, bargaining is expected. Start at 50-60% and negotiate with a smile.
Shipping Available
Major craft villages like Ban Tawai offer international shipping for large items.