Ancient art gets a modern makeover

A model wearing a brocade suit. Photo provided to China Daily

The brocade is tightly knit and won't wear out easily, which indicates that it is good for daily use. Its look is classic and graceful, but not overly luxurious, so it has the potential to become fashionable.

Wu came to the idea that the brocade can be made into handbags. He consulted experts and workers at the old factory he bought, and it turned out that Song Brocade was one of their specialties. The workers were very excited.

Wu's request was that the brocade had to be suitable for machine production, at least partially. Otherwise the price of a brocade handbag will be too high.

The experts and workers at the old factory were highly motivated at the prospect that their skills could be put into use again. The machines were developed within six months. Seven patents were received for the machines.

Wu's next decision was to invite designers in Suzhou, Beijing and other cities to use the brocade for designs. "Fashion and design has to be the priority here. It cannot be that traditional patterns are directly used because they are heritage and therefore sacred. The brocade products have to be liked by consumers," he said.

Going one step further, Wu had a workshop set up in Italy and invited European designers to join the process of designing on the basis of the ancient brocade and set up the brand Saint Joy.