1940 Panama Gold Award: Ramie Fabric’s Quality Earns International Acclaim

2025-09-20 11:27:05

In 1940, Wanzai ramie fabric stepped onto the global stage at the Panama International Exposition and walked away with the gold medal—a testament to its unparalleled quality that had been honed over 1,600 years. This win wasn’t just a trophy; it marked the moment this Chinese intangible cultural heritage gained worldwide recognition. Today, that award-winning quality still shines in diverse scenes, from Japanese tea houses to European art studios. Let’s explore how its gold-worthy traits translate to real-world use.

Its applications span continents and industries. In Asia, high-grade ramie (with 1000-1200 knots per unit) becomes elegant tea mats and wall hangings—its “嫩白匀净” (tender white and even) texture complementing Zen aesthetics. European fashion brands craft it into luxury garments, prizing its breathability that outperforms silk or cotton in summer. Even everyday items like door curtains and cloth shoes benefit from its durability—thanks to the “round yarn” (a Wanzai specialty) that’s finer and sturdier than flat yarn from other regions. This versatility is why it remains a staple in both art and daily life, 80+ years after its Panama triumph.

What Made the Gold Medal Possible?

Three core strengths sealed the win: raw material, craft, and quality. Wanzai’s mild climate and mineral-rich water grow top-tier ramie, which is stripped, retted, and spun into smooth round yarn through dozens of manual steps. The weaving process, refined over centuries, ensures even warp and weft, 平整 edges (flat edges), and a tight weave that resists wrinkles. Unlike mass-produced fabrics, it’s 100% handwoven, eco-friendly, and “越洗越白嫩” (whiter with each wash)—traits that wowed international judges then and impress users now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Wanzai ramie better than other ramie fabrics?

A: Its “round yarn” is the key! Compared to flat yarn varieties, it’s finer, more durable, and has better breathability. Plus, the 1,600-year-old craft ensures consistency that machine-made fabrics can’t match—just like the award-winning batches of 1940.

Q: What’s the best way to care for gold-worthy ramie products?

A: Keep it gentle! Hand-wash with mild detergent in cool water, squeeze (don’t wring), and air-dry in shade. Avoid hot water or harsh chemicals—they’ll ruin the softness and color that won the medal.

Q: Are all Wanzai ramie products award-quality?

A: It has 5 grades, but even lower grades retain core strengths. The gold medal recognized its top-tier quality, but mid-grade (600-800 knots) is perfect for daily use like tea mats, and lower grades shine as durable door curtains—all with that signature ramie charm.

From Panama’s podium to modern homes, Wanzai ramie’s gold medal quality endures. It’s not just fabric; it’s a legacy of craft that keeps winning hearts worldwide.