This simple felt bag is hand-made with the techniques used to make Shyrdak felt rugs in Kyrgyzstan. The Altyn Kol Cooperative works in the traditional style using methods that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Felt is made from local Kyrgyz wool through repeated hand-pressing. Together with Yurts, mountains and nomadic traditions, Felt is an iconographic material that makes up the literal fabric of this stunning country.
The cost of your shipment will vary by the destination of the piece(s) and the size of the order. The shipment costs you see here are estimates. We will certainly transport your order in the most economic way possible, and will only charge for the actual amount of the shipping cost. Before finalizing your order, we should briefly discuss the best and most value-oriented way to ensure that you receive your order safe and sound.
Felting connects fibers through compression and agitation. Kyrgyz felt unfolds the often agitated but infinitely compelling Central Asian region -- bringing feeling to the forgotten world. It is a non-woven fabric made by repeatedly pressing together wet sheep’s wool. It is durable, colorful and comfortable. Because the fabric is non-woven, it can be shaped, molded and added to, much like wet clay. Together with Yurts, mountains and nomadic traditions, Felt is an iconographic material that makes up the literal fabric of this stunning country.
Kyrgyzstan boasts a unique natural environment, and the connection between the Kyrgyz and the land is reflected in their art. Before forced collectivization in the 1930s, Kyrgyz nomads roamed the high altitude pastures with their flocks of sheep and yaks, living in decorative felt yurts. The traditional designs were symbolic of daily and cultural life – sitting drinking horsemilk, watching eagles, the importance of wolves, horses, sheep and yaks.
Favorite dish: Beshbarmak
Master Shyrdak Maker Mairam Omurzakova is a founding member of the Altyn Kol Women's Cooperative.
In 1995, she hosted a delegation from the Swiss development organization Helvetas. Upon entering her home, Mairam's visitors were astounded and enthralled with the family's rug collection. In these traditional rugs, they saw something of tremendous value for both the outside world and for the women of Kyrgyzstan. "I am so thankful to Helvetas," says Miariam, "They taught us how to make a business, how to sell our rugs, what our craft was worth."
Shyrdak rugs are independently unique to Kyrgyzstan. Each takes hundreds of hours and the combined effort of a community to create.
Mairam is very thankful for the global perspective that she's gained from selling her rugs. At 64, she is talkative, lively and has many stories to share about the history of Altyn Kol and her resulting experience. "Since beginning to sell Shyrdaks, my world outlook is always changing," she says. The particularly enjoys traveling and meeting people around the world.
Mairam lives in Kochkor with her 73-year-old husband who still works as a family physician for the local state-run medical clinic. She is supported in her work by her three adult children and by a warm network of family and close friends.
