Today the Khmu people, whose ancestors are considered to be the original inhabitants of Laos, are the second-largest ethnic group in the country. They are traditionally known for their intimate knowledge of the forest and its products, which have always been a vital part of the Khmu's artisan culture. Although many of their traditional handicraft skills have died out over the past decades, they still make bags using the strong Liana vine, which they harvest from the wild, then dry, twist into rope, and crochet.  

Mrs Pid is the head of her village handicraft group which consists of 25 - 30 families. Her family, like most Khmu living in rural areas, practises subsistence farming.  When not in the field, Mrs Pid dedicates a large amount of time to practising her craft. Making handicrafts has become recognised in her community as providing an important source of supplemental income.