Valgrisenche is the home of the Renaissance style weaving of rustic fabrics, which have typical colours and geometric decorations

Since the dawn of time, the inhabitants of Valgrisenche have devoted themselves to the typical activity of the valley: the weaving of the “drap”.

They devoted themselves to this task perhaps due to the lack of ancillary activities as an alternative to farming and sheep farming. Both the women and the men wove, as the latter were often more suited to handling the rudimentary looms. Today still, the structure of the loom remains rough, of the Renaissance type and only few innovations have been introduced to make the task easier.

The loom gives life to the “drap”, a rustic and especially rough fabric obtained from sheep's wool. The classic "drap" was a single colour, and went on to be available in bright, multicoloured shades that form geometric shapes and different sized squares. It is particularly used as textiles for furnishings since it is perfectly suited to the style of country furniture.

In Valgrisenche, the tradition of the “drap” is still alive today, owing to the precious work of the “Les Tisserands” co-operative that produces bedspreads and blankets, shawls and scarves, waistcoats, centrepieces and carpets.