Rich tapestry of tenacity

Problems and solutions

Many experts consider Tibetan wool to be best for rugs. It's warm in the winter and cool in the summer. But a lack of qualified workers is a major headache. The rugs produced by the local people were very rough and attracted insects, Wei says.

Tsetan recalls the problems and solutions: "The carpets produced by Tibetan people using ancient skills would last a long time in Tibet, but they'd become moth-eaten in the summer in other places." So, the couple's enterprise, Tibet Pangyenmedo Industrial and Trading Co, adopted new processing methods.

But one thing didn't change: They continued to weave by hand to ensure quality.

Over two decades, local residents were trained in rug-making, with guidance from Nepali and Indian associates in the company. Now, the company has more than 70 employees. Its rugs have gained popularity in the region and other parts of China.

Products include Tibetan mattresses, backrests, tapestries, phone mats, placemats, rugs, saddle pads, automobile pillows, seat cushions and khata, scarves that Tibetans present to guests as a symbol of purity and sincerity.

With Tibetan, Han and Nepali artworks and furniture in their living room, Tsetan and Wei engage three cultures every day, from food to thought.

Tsetan gave his wife a Tibetan name, Losang Chodron, and she gave him a Han coat.

"I think I was a Tibetan in my previous life," she says. "Others also consider me a Tibetan."