For over 4,000 years, Fergana Valley artisans have honed their silk-making skills, developing unique techniques for extracting thread from cocoons and dyeing yarn. This dedication to craftsmanship has made Margilan silk renowned for its quality and beauty, rivaling even the famed silk of China.
Today, Margilan is home to two prominent silk factories, one of which is the largest producer of «Khan-atlas» silk in Central Asia. This factory produces up to 2.5 kilometers of fabric daily, catering to a global market. The production process at this facility is largely automated, ensuring high efficiency and consistency in quality.
However, the true gem of Margilan’s silk industry is the «Yodgorlik» Margilan Factory, the only factory that has preserved the traditional manual methods of silk production. Established in 1972, Yodgorlik employs around 450 people, most of whom are women. This factory produces up to 6,000 meters of fabric each month, including natural silk and semi-silk varieties.
Uzbekistan’s traditional silk fabric, known as khan-atlas or «king silk,» is nearly entirely handmade. The fabric’s creation involves intricate processes, from cocoon unwinding to yarn dyeing, each step requiring meticulous attention to detail. The methods used by Fergana Valley weavers have been perfected over millennia, resulting in silk that is unparalleled in its softness, strength, and vibrant colors.
Khan-atlas is not the only fabric produced in Margilan. The region’s weavers also create shokhi, bekasam, and adras, all of which incorporate silk threads and exhibit distinct patterns and textures. These fabrics are celebrated for their exquisite designs and have a variety of uses, from traditional clothing to home decor.
The Yodgorlik Margilan Factory is a living museum of ancient silk-weaving techniques. Visitors to the factory can witness the entire silk production process, from the harvesting of cocoons to the weaving of the final fabric. This hands-on approach provides a deep appreciation for the skill and artistry involved in silk making.
At Yodgorlik, traditional wooden looms are used alongside modern equipment, blending old and new methods. The factory’s commitment to preserving these time-honored techniques ensures that the heritage of Margilan silk weaving is passed down to future generations.
