Here frame looms have been in existence for a long time, together with the weaving combs and weft ikat equipment. Warp ikat is only found in very simple designs among some of the T'ai groups of Laos and Thailand while hilltribe groups still practice the technique using backstrap looms. Warp ikat is best suited to the use of cotton or other plant fibres. Thus the colours used in theses textiles revolve around those suitable for natural ayes on cotton. Orange, green and purple are created by the overdye process.
Cottons made in weft ikat are mainly indigo and white.