Unique, handcrafted and heartfelt. These are the words husband and wife team Ric and Corrine Fowler use to describe the hand-knit sweaters they import from Thailand for sale in the United States.

In this age of increased technology, machines have replaced human endeavor in a multitude of industries. Not so for many rice farmers’ wives and daughters from the hill tribes of Northern Thailand.

Knitting and crocheting for Rico Handknits, the women, working from their stilt houses, will often congregate in one home and knit the day way while the men are at work in the fields. Reminiscent of American quilting bees, the women engage in village chatter, while the children play outside or sit in their mothers’ laps.

For over a decade, the Fowlers’ company, Rico International, has been importing these one-of-a-kind sweaters as a way to preserve the traditions and lifestyles of the secluded villagers, and to keep their families together and flourishing.

All Rico handknits and crochets are made of 100% cotton string. Small dyeing vats insure a wide-array of colors. Depending on how each knitter holds her needles, the tension of the yarn will vary, as will the ‘one size” fit.

Each garment and accessory is considered a piece of wearable art, with no two exactly alike.

Interestingly, because the sweaters are knit in the villagers’ homes, on occasion, a grain of rice can be found nestled among the yarn. The discovery is considered good luck for the wearer.

At Ease, a boutique in Leesville Center on the corner of Leesville and Strickland Roads, carries these delightful handknits for babies and toddlers. The sweaters have matching, whimsical hats, each as unique as their handcrafted counterparts. For more information, please call 845-3344.

At Ease is located in Leesville Centre at the intersection of Leesville and Strickland Roads. 9800 Leesville Rd., 845-3344, Mon-Sat 11am - 7pm, Sun 1pm - 6pm

Comments and questions regarding the article can be addressed to carol@northraleigh.net.