Materials and Tools for Mat-weaving in Iran
Bearing in mind the diversity of essential materials and method of weaving throughout the country, the article seeks to shed light on weaving methods used in different regions.
The essential materials used by mat-weavers in different parts of Iran vary on the basis of geographical diversity. These materials mostly include the palm tree leaves, straws found in marshlands in tropical and cold zones, wheat straw, withy, etc. The polishing substances include different types of oil such as oil veneer.
The tools used for mat-weaving are quite simple and limited such as sickle, different types of knives, saw, grate, pliers, scissor, needle, awl, etc. These tools are mostly used for cutting the plants and preparing the basic materials. They also act as auxiliary tools that facilitate the production process.
The straw has to reach the desirable diameter and length. At this point, it will be cut off by a sickle from a point that is closest to the root. Later, the leaves will be cut and an opening will be created by a knife in its upper part. Then, they will be piled up and pounded turning them into strips with various widths. In the weaving stage, the strips will be put beside one another and they will be woven and the product will be used as ordinary mats as well as mats used for the ceiling. There are other samples of mat-weaving in Iran in which case straws are not used as basic materials. Mats are used in different ways such as bags, bread basket, shopping basket, fruit basket, partition and lamp shade.
These products have to be protected in the face of heat, fire, pressure and strike by sharp or cutting objects. They can be washed using tepid water and ordinary detergents.
Translated by: Sadroddin Musawi
Other links:
Iranian Carpets: Gabbeh
Iranian Art: Jajim Weaving
