Apart from lantern-making, the creation of silk-flowers has become an illustrious trade of Bao Dap village in the northern province of Nam Dinh as it generates jobs for rural labourers and benefits the local economy.

The job has supported three generations of the family of Vu Thi Son as well as her seven brothers and sisters.

As one of the pioneers in the trade, Son has involved in making silk flowers for nearly 17 years and her products with more than 10 varieties are very popular among customers.

She said her family has created silk flowers based on natural flora and introduced to the market a new kind each year.

There are 400 silk-flower family producers and businesses in Bao Dap village, Hong Quang commune, the majority of which have a long tradition in the trade.

Products vary from family to family, and to meet customers’ increasing demand, production is non-stop.

Nguyen Thi Nham told the reporter that her family has made silk flowers for nearly five years and the job is suitable for people of all ages with sufficient income.

Nguyen Quoc Viet, Chairman of Hong Quang commune, unveiled that many households can earn annual incomes of between 200-300 million VND from the trade. The sum contributes to the local economy and improves living standards in the area.

Silk flowers are popular among customers as they are aesthetically pleasing, have a long life and are reasonably priced. Apricot and peach flowers are the most popular on the occasion of the Lunar New Year.

According to traders, Bao Dap silk flowers have been sold in many places across the country, and exported to as far as Japan, China, Thailand and Laos .

With creative and skilful hands, the village craftsmen bring colour to life, preserve the traditional trade and help the local economy develop.-VNA