The Felt Yak: Shepherd-Crafted Treasures of the Plateau
Yaks have served as the "boat of the plateau" for thousands of years, strong and sturdy animals whose thick black coats have selflessly sustained every aspect of a shepherd's life—offering food, clothing, shelter, and transportation. The felt yak figurine offered here is a handmade creation crafted by shepherds; because each piece is produced manually, it may differ slightly from the images shown, and we appreciate your understanding. To purchase this felt yak toy, click here.
Handmade by a group of shepherds in Ganga Town, the Toto Yak Shepherd Handmade Ornament captures yaks in such lifelike form that they seem almost real. These shepherds, who are mindful of the environment, craft the ornaments from felt. Just as yaks provide dependable, earth-bound support that gives shepherds the freedom to roam beneath the open sky, may this small yak—loaded with its luggage—also carry your aspirations to distant horizons.
With support from the Sanjiangyuan Designer Alliance, the Ganjia Shanjue Environmental Protection Volunteer Team invited Koko and wool teacher—both dedicated and responsible educators—to lead handicraft making training. This initiative aimed to promote grassland stories, nomadic culture, and the wisdom of nature, while also giving the community more chances to acquire new skills.
Teacher Koko leads herders in Ganjia to craft a series of felt animals from the plateau. This product is a yak made of 100% wool. It stands about 9cm tall and measures roughly 7cm across, though manual measurements could vary slightly. [Because our herders have only limited time and energy, we work solely from the original design and cannot fulfill custom requests. We thank you for your understanding.]
The Shanjue Ganjia Environmental Protection Team, a guardian of the grasslands attuned to nature's voice, upholds altruism as its guiding principle, and "He" represents all things. The Highland Animal Series products seek to foster greater awareness of the Tibetan Plateau's fragile ecosystem, helping to safeguard what is described as one of the "last pure lands on the Blue Planet".
Our practice of nature protection ideals takes shape through ecological education, hands-on nature experiences, and waste cleanup efforts. By caring for students, we actively support the growth of grassland youth. With the mission to safeguard ecology and promote culture in our hearts, we move forward through song, sharing the wisdom of the grasslands and ancient nomadic heritage, and the stories of all living beings' growth, all offered for you to hear.
Should you have any questions or suggestions about this product, please reach out to us. We appreciate your support! For care, note that felt is prone to pilling; try to reduce friction and trim any pills as soon as they appear. Avoid washing with water—just pat it and wipe gently.