We had a fascinating visit to a silk factory today. Remember getting mulberry leaves and silkworms when you went to school and trying to make silk from the cocoon? Well today we found out exactly how it happens!

A moth lays about 300 eggs and each grub then spins a cocoon with about 1.8 kms of silken thread it produces from its mouth.

The silk thread is unwound from the cocoon by hand and then dyed and spun into beautiful fabric.

The fabrics are then used to make exquisite clothes by the worlds top designers – or clothes fit for an emperor like these gowns .

Then came the sell job! Tim was a great salesman, first explaining the benefits of silk and then he was into his sales pitch. “Let me tell you about the specials we have for you today!”

Out came the silk scarves, the pyjamas, the underwear, the socks … and then it was on to the bed linen. “This quilt you must have for a healthy sleep all year round” …and it’s only so many dollars. Then to maximise its benefit you really should have a silk quilt cover. “How much do you think this should be? No it’s not that much or that much … if you buy the quilt we will give you the free quilt cover! “And if you want to feel like you’re sleeping in luxury then the silk bottom sheet is what you need … we will throw this in for free! But wait there’s more! Silk filled pillows will give you the best night’s sleep and with silk pillow cases your skin and hair will be lovely when you wake up!”

750AUD we left with a full set of bedding! Like I said, a great salesman 😂😂😂

We all left the silk factory a little poorer in the pocket but well and truly richer for the experience!

Next stop Wuxi. See you there!