The Mailīši factory was established in 2018 to preserve handiwork traditions and skills.  The factory weaves textiles from wool, flax and silk, as well as blankets, shoulder wraps and linen towels.  Visitors can examine and try all kinds of hand-driven looms that were used in Latvia from the 9th to the 21st century.  Guests can start with vertical weaving stands or programmable looms.  There are two Viļumsons looms that were invented and patented in Latvia. 

Ilze is a fourth-generation representative of the family to be involved in weaving.  Her mother, Inese Mailīte, has been a weaver for nearly half a century. 

Visitors will learn about weaving textiles and the various technologies that are involved.  A creative workshop will allow guests to sew a small 30x30 cm pillow with textiles from the workshop, filling it with sheep wool.  Alternatively, guests can prepare a knot pillow, weave a sample of a belt, prepare an accessory for a costume, create yarn or twine.

THE PROGRAMME:

• Meeting Ilze and Inese Mailītis;
• Touring the company to try out weaving on various types of looms;
• Learning about the sheep wool of various kinds (looking, touching and smelling it), as well as woollen items;
• Sewing a small pillow after selecting the textile and the wool, then filling it with wool.  Guests will be able to take these pillows home.