When I went to Laos I visited the markets where Hmong tribespeople sell their wares. I came across these wonderful intricately hand-stitched, stuffed water buffalos. Water buffalo are common animals in Laos; they are used for farming and for eating. So adorable, these stuffed buffalo feature traditional Hmong stitching, colors and patterns. Perfect for kids or adults.

 

Laos is the landlocked country sandwiched between Vietnam and Thailand in Southeast Asia. The Hmong in Laos are mostly poor, rural farmers, but the incredible hand-stitched traditional handicrafts they create are bought up quickly at local markets, giving them crucial funds to improve their standard of living.