Handwoven Rush Trivets

These wonderful rush trivets are crafted by the weavers of the Yuanli Handicraft Association in Yuanli, an urban township in southwestern Miaoli County. The association has played a crucial role in keeping this traditional craft alive. These trivets, available in 10cm, 14cm and 17cm diameters, are perfect for placing under your teapot on your chaxi.

For nearly 300 years, the artisans of Yuanli have perfected the art of rush weaving, a tradition that began during the Qing Dynasty and has been passed down through generations in the area. In the 1700s, Plains Indigenous people, also known as Pingpu people, wove mats from wild rush grass growing along the lower stretches of the Da'an River. The craft was later adopted by nearby Han Chinese settlers, who gradually developed more elaborate techniques, such as weaving three-dimensional shapes.

The triangular rush, named for its unique three-sided shape, is special to Yuanli. It differs from rush grass in Japan, China, Vietnam and other parts of Taiwan. Yuanli's location between the ocean and mountains provides ideal conditions for the rush to grow, giving it excellent moisture-wicking abilities, strength, flexibility and a pleasant fragrance.

Rush grass is harvested three times a year: in early spring for small, delicate items; in autumn for hats and mats; and in winter for thick rope. After harvesting, the rush is dried in the sun, split into pieces by needle and then pounded to soften before weaving.

The triangular rush is strong, flexible and resistant to sun damage. Its lovely yellow color deepens over time, adding a touch of history and craftsmanship to your tea experience.