Uzbekistan: A Blend of Traditional Craft and Contemporary Silk Design

Uzbekistan's Fergana region sustains traditional silk production, integrating artisanal craftsmanship with modern design to evolve its silk industry from cocoon to cloth.

Tue May 26 2026

Silk Production and Craftsmanship in the Fergana Region

The Fergana Region of Uzbekistan boasts a rich history of silk production, upholding traditional methods. At the 'Gold Silk' factory in Margilan, the entire process, from silkworm cocoons to finished silk fabric, is handled in-house. Silk, an organic material with unique properties, cools the body in summer and warms it in winter, and has long been prized for its softness, strength, and natural sheen. Craftsmen meticulously calculate and prepare threads for complex patterns, with the selection of colors being a particularly crucial stage. According to craftsman Nodirshoh Fayziyev, there are no limits to working with silk; the more you work with it, the more new ideas and creations emerge.

Kokand Silk Paper and Bukhara Silk Products

Since the era of the Kokand Khanate, ancestors utilized waste from cocoon processing to produce natural paper. Today, in the city of Kokand, special attention is given to silk paper production, with scholars initiating work in this direction. In Bukhara, the silk journey reaches its final stage, where fabrics woven from delicate threads are transformed into clothing, scarves, and accessories, illustrating how centuries-old craftsmanship continues to shape everyday design. Nodirshoh explains that each pair of silk shoes takes at least 5-6 hours to make, using the central part of the fabric to ensure consistency in the pattern.

Khiva Silk Museum and Future Prospects

At the small museum in Khiva, visitors can engage in various activities, such as extracting silk thread from cocoons and dyeing scarves. They can even try their hand at the loom. According to craftswoman Rakhima Khudaybergenova, using natural dyes allows visitors to feel more connected, and the scarves reflect their inner emotions. Silk production in Uzbekistan continues to combine traditional knowledge with contemporary approaches, sustaining a craft that remains relevant in modern life. It is also believed that wearing silk is beneficial for human health, helping to restore balance in the body.

*Source: YouTube: Euronews (2026-05-26)*

Tags: #Uzbekistan #Silk Road #Traditional Craft #Silk Production #Cultural Heritage