Handicraft Materials and Tools Bamboo, Seashells, Coconut Shells, Metal, and Tools
Introduction Handicrafts use different natural and man-made materials. They are an integral part of Filipino culture and livelihood. Traditional crafts showcase Filipino creativity and resourcefulness. Handicrafts provide sustainable income for many communities. 2
Bamboo Grows abundantly in many parts of the Philippines. Known for its strong, pliant fibers that are easy to bend and split. Versatile material used for: Construction Furniture Baskets and hats Lamps and vases Sustainable resource with rapid growth cycle. 3
Types of Bamboo and Uses Kawayang Tinik – Strong bamboo good for building, baskets, hats, and paper pulp. Bagto – Used for chairs, mats, flutes, weaving looms, and paper. Gigantochloa – Primarily used for water pipes and fish traps. Dendracalamus – Ideal for construction, vehicle shafts, and ropes. 4
Seashells Common types of seashells used in Filipino handicrafts: Balay - Used for decorative items Talaba - Oyster shells for various crafts Kaligay - Small shells for jewelry Paros - Conch shells for ornaments Pilipit - Spiral shells for accessories Halsan - Used in decorative arrangements Kabibi - Clam shells for various crafts 5
Varieties of Seashells Giant Clams Used as bathtubs, fonts, belts, and buckles. Mother of Pearl From black lip & gold lip oyster; commonly used for buttons and inlay work. Capiz Shells Flat and round shells used for windows, chandeliers, trays, and lampshades. 6
Coconut Shells Found abundantly in coconut-producing provinces throughout the Philippines. Used for creating: Cups and utensils Decorative vases Buttons and jewelry Toys and plant hangers Distinct characteristics: Durable - long-lasting material Not brittle - resistant to breaking Do not warp - maintain shape over time 7
Metal Versatile material for various handicrafts. Products: Napkin holders Flower vases Book-ends Candle holders Sprinklers Utensils Examples of metals used: Pewter Copper Brass Aluminum Tin plate Galvanized iron 8
Handicraft Tools Specialized tools help in processing materials for handicrafts. Tool categories commonly used in Filipino crafts: Edge-Cutting Tools Gouge, Spokeshave, Pocketknife Bolo, Block Plane, Jack Plane Boring Tools Hand drills for making holes Measuring Tools Rulers, calipers, measuring tapes Finishing Tools Sandpaper, files, polishing materials 9
Edge-Cutting Tools 1. Gouge For cutting curves 2. Spokeshave For cleaning edges of bamboo/coconut shell 3. Pocketknife For cutting/scraping bamboo and shells 4. Bolo For cutting wood and bamboo 5. Block Plane For planing coconut shells and bamboo 6. Jack Plane For smoothening surfaces 10
Boring Tools Hand Drill Used to make precise holes in bamboo, wood, and shells. Essential for creating: Jewelry and beaded crafts Decorative patterns Connection points for joining materials Mounting holes for hardware Available in various sizes for different hole diameters. Traditional hand-powered drills require skill to maintain consistent pressure and speed. 11
Conclusion Handicrafts reflect Filipino creativity and resourcefulness , transforming natural materials into functional and beautiful objects. Traditional handicrafts preserve cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge. Sustainable use of natural resources is essential for the continued practice of handicraft traditions. Handicraft production provides livelihood opportunities for many Filipino communities. Supporting local artisans helps maintain these valuable skills for future generations. 12