Coconut Fiber Weaving - Ben Tre’s Timeless Craft

"In the peaceful town of Cai Be, where the Mekong’s branches wind through coconut groves and small workshops, a simple yet remarkable craft continues to thrive — coconut fiber weaving. Here, under the shade of palm trees, locals transform dried coconut leaves and husks into something lasting and meaningful.

The process begins after harvest. Once the coconuts are used for juice and food, the remaining husks and fibers are cleaned, dried, and softened under the sun. With practiced hands, the artisans twist and braid each strand into strong ropes and woven patterns. Every motion is rhythmic, quiet, and purposeful — a dance learned from generations before.



For many women in Cai Be, this is not just a craft but part of daily life. They sit at their doorsteps or in open-front houses, weaving while chatting with neighbors or watching the river flow by. Each piece they make carries both utility and beauty — baskets, hammocks, brooms, or decorations that serve homes across the Mekong Delta.

Visitors who pass by are often drawn to the natural sound of fibers brushing together and the sight of real craftsmanship that technology can’t imitate. Watching these artisans at work reveals something deeper about Southern Vietnam’s culture and daily life — patience, creativity, and the bond between people and their land.



Coconut fiber weaving reflects the authentic spirit of the Mekong Delta, where nothing is wasted and everything is connected. It is slow, mindful work that brings not only income but also pride to the makers. In a fast-changing world, this local tradition reminds us how art can come from ordinary things, when made by real hands with love and skill.