Phaeng Mai Gallery sells an exclusive collection of exquisite fabrics made using naturally-dyed silk painstakingly hand woven on traditional looms. To preserve the weaving heritage of Laos, designs used are derived from antique textiles such as those commissioned by the ancient royal courts. Phaeng Mai Gallery is run by two sisters from Samneua Province who supervise the entire weaving process in an extended family manner. A highlight of its work was in 1991 when it participated the South East Asia Textile Weaving Contest, held in Chiang Mai and sponsored by UNESCO. Phaeng Mai has won a number of awards in recognition of its work in weaving, notably in 2004 under the UNESCO-AHPADA Award of Excellence for Handicrafts Programme scheme. In 1990 Phaeng Mai Gallery opened its handloom weaving facilities to train Lao people and others in the intricate skills and techniques required to produce Lao textiles. Each course is adapted to suit weaving experience and the specific needs of clusters of trainee weavers.