The Akha textiles used for these throw cushions are made of firmly woven hemp and cotton. These textiles are antique and a very skilled stitch has been used. This technique is rarely seen today.

The Akha grow cotton and hemp, Akha women spend much of their time spinning and weaving cloth and making clothing. In the traditional Akha view, art is something one wears. Girls are taught to spin when they are 6 or 7 years old, for the mother alone cannot make sufficient thread to clothe the entire family. Women and girls spin thread constantly – while walking to the field, carrying wood or water, sitting by the fireside in the evening and during every other available moment.

Weaving is a dry season activity. Akha cloth requires up to 30 days of daily dipping in the indigo - leaves and drying in order to produce the characteristic, deep blue-black hue. Their costumes are considered one of the most spectactular outfits in the hills.