A young couple gives traditional Mongolian wool a makeover

In 2012, Xie Jianing, from Qiqihar in Heilong-jiang province, married a Mongolian man named Gankhuyag. Xie then developed a keen interest in the Mongolian felted wool tradition. Over the past few years, Xie and her husband have been working on wool produced by their Mongolian relatives and have painstakingly devoted themselves to researching the traditional art. Their handmade felted wool products, featuring innovative designs, are a big hit with a small group of customers.

Recently, well-known designers and manufacturers have contacted the couple with offers to collaborate. Some unique creations may be born.

Xinhua News Agency

GANKHUYAG and his wife, Xie Jianing, make felted wool at home in Harbin, Heilongjiang province. Photos by Wang Kai

AT THE CHINA-RUSSIA EXPO in Harbin, Xie introduces their designs and patterns to customers.

BAATAR SAIKHAN, the couple's energetic son, occupies the center of the couple's life.

FINISHED FELTED WOOL needs to be soaped for good conservation. The couple always work together on the details.

(China Daily Africa Weekly 02/24/2017 page4)