As the Jiangsu Football City League becomes an internet sensation, Wu Liangliang, head of a renowned blue calico brand in Tongzhou district, Nantong, is incorporating soccer elements into this ancient craft, creating a range of original products such as bags and plush toys and increasing public interest in the traditional art form.

Through Nantong blue calico printing and dyeing techniques, soccer elements are added to canvas bags and a lucky cat plush toy. [Photo/WeChat account: wxtzfb]

The production of blue calico products is complex. From wood carving to final presentation, each piece takes a week to craft. The newly launched products have hit the market with good feedback, generating sales and reservations.

The football-themed lucky cat plush toy is a particularly hot seller and makes for a great gift. The products are priced affordably, with the lucky cat costing about 26 yuan ($3.63), bags 80-100 yuan, and clothes 120-130 yuan each.

Nantong blue calico printing and dyeing craft is a traditional dyeing technique spanning 1,300 years and has been practiced in many regions of Nantong like Tongzhou. As blue calico's indigo patterns merge with football passion, this traditional craft is rejuvenating in modern society.