Weaving

Weaving of baskets and mats are common in most parts of the country, but the north-east states of India deserve a special mention. There are different weaving styles, each with a special quality about it. Border weaving in basketry comes in different styles. The usual ones being the tree strand warp border, simple wrapped border and fastened twine.

A large variety of functional baskets too are made. 'Korahi' basket is so made so as to let water pass through while washing rice or fish. The tray is made in the twill technique, whereby weft strands pass over and under two or more warp strands at a time. Manipur has all-purpose type baskets. But its speciality is the basket with dome shaped lid made out of bamboo. This square shaped basket has checks and squares in black and white. Called 'chembong', it is used to store valuable clothes.

Bengal too has a rich variety of baskets. Mat weaving is another speciality of Bengal. 'Sitalpatti', (or cool mat), are made from green cane slips. These are used to sleep on during summers. Another Bengal mat, well known for its fine quality is the 'maslond' of Midnapur district. Mats are also woven with intricate designs like temple spirals, mango patterns etc.

Mat weaving is also an important handicraft of Pondicherry. The designs are divided between horizontal and vertical stripes and floral. Apart from cane and bamboo used for making mats and baskets, other materials too are used in the weaving process. Nagore makes palm leaf articles, especially shopping bags, dinner cases and ornamental folding.

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