In Ethiopia, handloom weaving is an important tradition with deep roots.

For generations, all over the country, many households have depended on weaving to earn income and sustain livelihoods.

Handloom weaving is a demanding trade traditionally done by men whereas the spinning of cotton in preparation of weaving is often done by women, including elderly women.

Nowadays more women have become skilled weavers, enabling them to provide for their families and to empower themselves.

The sound of handloom weaving is unmistakable. The shush of the flying shuttle – a small kayak-shaped object, often fashioned from dogwood, that holds the weft thread – as it’s thrown through the shed, or warp threads. The slam of the beater. The click of the heddle.