Bhutan’s age-old weaving tradition may soon see a new chapter, thanks to innovative young minds blending technology with culture. In a joint effort to make weaving easier and more appealing to the younger generation, students from Jigme Namgyel Engineering College (JNEC) and Gyalpozhing College of Information Technology (GCIT), in collaboration with the Royal Textile Academy (RTA), have developed modern weaving tools and a digital design platform.
Her Majesty Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck, the Royal Patron of the Royal Textile Academy, graced the event showcasing the prototypes. The ceremony also marked the ground-breaking for the construction of a new auditorium and conference centre at RTA.
Blending Tradition with Technology
Recent Mechanical Engineering graduates from JNEC showcased mechanised yarn processing equipment, including spindles and carding machines, designed to improve efficiency, ensure consistent yarn quality, and save time. Their most notable creation, however, was a modernised back-strap loom — a reimagined version of the traditional loom that has long been associated with discomfort and physical strain.
“Youths show little interest in weaving because traditional back-strap looms often cause back pain,” explained Laxmi Chimariya, a JNEC graduate. “To address this and revive interest in our rich culture, we developed an improved back-strap loom that allows movement and adjustments to reduce discomfort.”
A Digital Leap for Creativity
Meanwhile, students from GCIT introduced a digital design studio — a platform that allows weavers to design textile patterns virtually. The software gives users a visual preview of their designs before the weaving process begins, helping them create precise and intricate patterns with greater ease.
“It is a concern for the Royal Textile Academy and all of us that young people are losing interest in textile work,” said Anup Gurung, a GCIT student. “With this design studio, they can explore their creativity. Even if they do not weave, they can still contribute by creating designs digitally.”
Preserving Heritage Through Innovation
Officials from the Royal Textile Academy expressed optimism that these innovations would make weaving less laborious while keeping Bhutan’s textile heritage alive. The institution hopes that by combining modern tools with traditional artistry, more youth will take pride in continuing Bhutan’s weaving legacy.
“From now on, we plan to refine these prototypes to make them fully usable,” said Ugyen Tenzin, Director of the Royal Textile Academy. “After that, we will explore mass production, collaborate with companies, and secure patent rights so that these tools can be recognised as purely Bhutanese products.”
As Bhutan strides toward modernization, these pioneering efforts serve as a reminder that innovation can coexist with tradition — ensuring that the vibrant threads of Bhutan’s weaving culture continue to inspire future generations.
