Netan Braid

A token of love for the young and the old.

A common item that is created by young people and couples is a Netan.  The Netan is a braided ribbon that pulls together the color of the intended’s eyes, the future that is desired and the color of the giver’s eyes.  

A Netan can be short enough to tie off a small ponytail or long enough to tie around a braid and then drape and rest against the back of the beloved.  Netans are usually woven by hand but in recent years crafters have been selling braiding looms.  These braiding looms are made of wood or metal that can be affixed to tables or chairs.  

Netans are usually given out in spring and in fall, during the two festivals of the year that focus on lovers.  The Budding Festival (a festival in the spring) focuses on young lovers and the Ripening Festival (a in the fall) focuses on older married couples.  The thickness of a Netan depends on the length of the relationship, the depth of passion and the wealth of the senders.

Netans are usually made out of thread or yarn.  More well-to-do celebrants, might also use silk or more expensive materials to weave a Netan braided ribbon.  Some artisans sell custom Netans with fancy beads and jewels.  

King Alduin popularized the Netan in his courtship and marriage of the Lady Riaden.  He famously sent a jeweled Netan to ask if he could court her.  She agreed and sent him a Netan in response.  At their marriage, they exchanged Netans that they tied on their betrothed as part of the ceremony.  Their courtship was then sung about across Merida by bards in taverns and at festivals. 

The King’s courtship and marriage made the Netan a fad that resulted in the sell out of materials in Tailors and Yarn shops.  Sales of custom Netans are much more popular during the Ripening Festival.