Meet the ladies who are keeping the traditional craft of lacemaking alive

Dickwella is an area famous for traditional ‘Beeralu’ bobbin lacemaking. Women have been engaged in the industry for generations – but most of them earn very little. Over 50% of families earn less than Rs. 4,000 per month and the craft is slowly disappearing.

In 2006, Sri Lanka’s Responsible Tourism Partnership set up the social enterprise Dickwella Lace Centre securing the livelihoods of more than 90 unemployed poor women on the southern coast. 

The Centre supports traditional lace makers, inspiring the development of new lace designs and products. It also has allowed unemployed women to learn new skills such as lace making, design, basic business skills, sales and marketing. 100% of the income generated from this social enterprise directly benefits the centre and craft producers.

From 4 and 5 May, The Dickwella Lace Centre will be showcasing it products for sale at BMICH at the Sancharaka Udawa, Sri Lanka’s largest tourism and travel fair.

Come and support the ladies of Dickwella by purchasing their beautiful lace products, and in doing so keeping alive one of Sri Lanka’s traditional crafts.

You can also visit the Dickwella Lace Centre 18, Naotunna South, Kottegoda, just a 30-minute drive from Matara or Tangalla.

Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Poya and New Year holidays.