The meaning behind Passa Paa prints
Passa Paa is known for its colorful prints, but did you know each print has a meaning behind it? Designing these prints was no easy task. Both Pok and Heather spent many months researching and brainstorming ideas. The goal was to have symbols and shapes that are important for the Hmong culture but at the same time are symmetrical and adaptable. Because Pok grew up seeing these symbols (for example embroidering them in her Hmong skirts), she was a great source of information during this design process. Heather’s background in textile design was equally as important as it helped to envision how the products would look once the prints were done.
As you check the images below, you’ll realise that the Passa Paa prints can be used in a variety of ways. Sometimes the scale of the print is changed and sometimes multiple prints are used on top of each other or right next to each other to create different visual effects according to the product.
Every print is unique and we wouldn’t be able to choose a favourite as creating each print is a special journey for our team. Adding a new print to our Passa Paa collection is always a big deal. We are constantly researching and imagining new prints! But so far we have 8 prints that fill our shop and hearts with meaning and colour.
We hope you enjoy learning about their meanings and from now on, every time you see a Passa Paa product you are able to see there is a story behind its materials, behind the hands that made them and the prints it carries.
Mountain
✨This particular design is one of Passa Paa's main signature prints. It is called the "Mountain" print and it signifies strength. Obviously inspired by the Lao mountains, 1000-1500m above sea level, where Hmong traditionally people live, where our hemp is cultivated and our indigo knowledge comes from. Find it in our cushions, yoga bag, tote bag and computer bag amongst others!
Hmong Heart
✨ We call this print the ‘Hmong heart’, can you see why? But traditionally in Hmong culture it is also referred to as ‘Elephant motif’ and it is often related to prosperity and family. Whether it’s one name or the other, this print symbolises things we all need more of: love, unity, hope ♥️ That is why we love seeing it in our backpack, our beach bags and face covers amongst others. So, wherever you are, we hope you feel everything this print stands for 🐘
Triangles
✨This print has multiple names. Sometimes called “Triangles” sometimes called “Windmill”. It is probably one of our most versatile designs and that is exactly what it reminds us of, balance and yet adaptability (something 2020 has also reminded us of!) Find it in our sarongs, totes, beach bags and face masks amongst others.
Fence
✨ This print is called “Fence”. Every Hmong and Lao house in the village has a fence, sometimes for protection and usually for delimitation purposes. Some are made of bamboo, or wood and even cactuses and plants. But our favourite kind of fence is the one you can climb, play and watch a beautiful sunset (like the one on the picture we captured on our last visit!) See this print in some of our cushions, computer cases, tea towels and jackets.
The Rice Field
✨ This print is called "The Rice Field". We don't have to explain how the whole country depends on these fields as rice is a staple on every Lao meal and it is the source of income to many Hmong families in their villages. They are mesmerising to watch and we love how the water that flows shines through the maze of the fields. Right now most of the people that worked in tourism have had to return to their lands and go back to their crops. And that is why we have this print! To remind us of the importance of these places and the amount of work that comes into each grain of rice. Find this print in several of our products including our face covers, scarfs and beach bags.
Flower Cloth
✨ This print is one of the most traditional Hmong prints we work with. It is called ""Flower Cloth"" or Paj Ntaub in Hmong Language. Many say its appliqué motifs are full of abstract representation, code language, used as protection from bad spirits and it helps identify ethnic groups. Only stitched by women and passed on through generations, you can usually find this motif in baby carriers and it currently decorates some of our cross body bags, clutches and cushion covers.
Spider Web
✨ This print is called "Spider Web", can you see why?! It is a symbol of connection and creation. Even if we are not a big fan of these creatures (like this Lao 🕷spider we found on our last hike!) we are always in awe of the patience, time, unique shapes and strength of these webs. Find this print on our pencil cases, clutches and tea towels.
Pumpkin Seed
✨ This specific print is called the "Pumpkin seed" print and it signifies growth and abundance. This fruit is found in many traditional Lao dishes and even in the Hmong traditional tales. We hold on to this print for more growth and abundance for the rest of the year! Find it in our toiletry bags, clutches and tea towels.
