Mulberry silk production in Thailand

It is believed that silk production originated in China over 5,000 years ago. Initially, silk was reserved exclusively for the emperor, but its use later spread throughout the country and eventually to other parts of Asia.

mulberry slikworms

There are a few different types of silkworms, generally classified by the species that produces the cocoon. The most common variety found in Thailand is the mulberry silkworm, which locals often refer to as the domesticated silkworm. The practice of rearing mulberry silkworms has evolved over thousands of years, selectively bred to produce thicker and significantly larger cocoons than those of wild silkworms.

The relationship between humans and domesticated silkworms is much like how we raise pets or livestock. These silkworms are entirely dependent on human care. They cannot even survive or reproduce in the wild on their own, as they have been bred to have bodies that are too large and heavy for the adult moths to fly.

Mulberry silkworms feed exclusively on mulberry leaves; they will completely refuse to eat any other type of plant. Furthermore, they are extremely sensitive to chemicals. Even the slightest chemical contamination in their food supply can be instantly fatal.

fully grown silk cocoons

Silk may not be a widely accepted choice among vegans (individuals who strictly adhere to a lifestyle that not only involves a plant-based diet but also avoids all animal-derived products and activities that exploit animals), as the silk production process involves boiling the cocoons while the silkworms are still inside.

However, local villagers raise silkworms using sustainable practices that generate no environmentally harmful waste. The excrement produced during the rearing of mulberry silkworms is repurposed as fertilizer for the mulberry trees, which serve as the silkworms' food source. As mentioned earlier, because these silkworms are extremely sensitive to chemicals, the use of natural, organic fertilizer is an absolute necessity. Furthermore, the silkworms themselves eventually become a high-protein food source for the locals.

Ultimately, mulberry silkworm rearing in Thailand directly supports local communities by providing vital income and fostering self-reliance, all while preserving traditional wisdom and local culture for generations to come.

 

boiling the cocoons releases the yarn

Distinguishing between genuine and artificial silk can be quite challenging for the average person. Testing methods to determine whether the fabric is real or synthetic range from feeling its texture and listening to its sound, to conducting burn tests or even dissolving it in copper sulfate. Artificial silk fibers are made from petroleum-based polyester. Unlike natural fibers, once we no longer want them, they immediately turn into waste that contributes to environmental problems.

Genuine silk is a natural fiber that is highly resilient and incredibly durable. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see younger generations still wearing silk garments that once belonged to their parents or grandparents.