Norlha's 18th Anniversary

We are humbled to have completed eighteen years in the valley of Ritoma, a small village in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, China. This is a place that has shaped our path and spirit, and embraced craft from the very beginning. When we first arrived, the idea was simple yet ambitious: to create something of true provenance, rooted in the land and made by the hands of those who call it home. Over the years, Ritoma has become more than our home; the land, the yak, and the people have become our inspiration. We thank the village for welcoming us, for opening its homes and hearts, and for walking beside us through every season.

Eighteen years later, Norlha has grown into a community of over one hundred artisans, of whom 95% are from Ritoma and 68% are women. Many began their journey as nomads, skilled in the rhythms of the plateau and the care of their animals, and have since joined Norlha to become masterful artisans shaping yak khullu, the precious undercoat of the yak, into textiles that carry both tradition and innovation. Each person, whether spinner, weaver, tailor, administrator, or member of our creative team, has contributed to this shared journey of care and craftsmanship. Together, we have learned that longevity comes not only from what we make, but from how we make it: with sincerity, patience, and respect for people and place.

As we look ahead, we carry forward the spirit of collaboration that began in this valley, honouring the yak whose fibre grounds our work, and the community that continues to shape it. We hope that each piece we create holds the quiet strength of the land and the people who sustain it.