The sales manager Yang Qian presents a high-end straw hat made from toquilla straw (Panama grass). [Photo by Bi Nan/chinadaily.com.cn]

The craft has deep roots in the local community. Known for its simplicity, practicality and accessibility, Langya grass weaving is a collective, hands-on skill passed down through generations. The process involves several steps, including starting the weave, placing it on a mold, layering grass, removing the mold, locking the edge and shaping. The weaving patterns are classified based on the direction of the warp and weft grass into two-way, three-way, four-way and five-way techniques, while the hand movements include pressing, picking, crossing and twisting.