Ratchaburi, Water hyacinth, from worthless weeds, is woven into various pieces of work, generating income for the family. Water hyacinth is a weed that can reproduce quickly. If not eliminated, it will affect the environment and block waterways. However, due to the long stems of the plant, it can be used. The Manikham Weaving Group in Don Sai Subdistrict, Pak Tho District, Ratchaburi Province uses it as a raw material for weaving bags and baskets, which helps reduce production costs. It is a raw material that is easy to find locally, so you don't have to buy it. You can collect it along the canals and dry it in the sun through a process. It can be used as a product that helps create jobs and careers very well. Mrs. Chaisopa Banglansirikul, 52 years old, the president of the Manikham Weaving Group, said that the water hyacinth used must be at least 80 cm long. Cut off the ends, wash thoroughly, and dry in the sun for about 5 days to remove moisture. Then soak in sodium salt to prevent mold and to make it wh ite. Soak for another hour and dry in the sun again. When dry, tear into strips and roll them to make them smaller and more beautiful. As for storing the processed water hyacinth, put them in plastic bags and tie them tightly to protect them from the wind, which can extend their lifespan. After collecting the water hyacinth, they will be given to the group's 25 members, most of whom are elderly in the community, to shape into products such as bags, baskets, trays, and cat beds. This gives the villagers work and allows them to work from home, so they won't be lonely. It is a way to encourage the elderly to meet and talk to each other. The income is calculated based on the labor cost and the difficulty of weaving each piece. For those interested, please contact us for more information at 099-1234938 or via Facebook Mani Kham Chak San. Source: Thai News Agency