Flared needle pouch (kab-cho) with a pointed tip. There are remains of flat wire embroidered fabric in the central panel, which is bordered with plaited red thread. The sides of the pouch are of red leather. Two thongs pull out a central section to reveal a core of a fibrous material, possibly wool, into which needles can be inserted. The pouch is pulled shut by the suspension thong.
Needle cases or 'kab-cho' are often carried by Tibetan nomads on their chatelaines. Needles are vital tools when it comes to repairing clothing or equipment, but they can be difficult to replace when away from permanent settlements and as we all know, they are very easy to loose. Kab-cho represent and ingenious way of keeping needles safe whilst on the move.
