Indonesia is a nation that is rich in the diversity of regional arts. The richness of the arts and crafts is none other than a reflection of the diversity of Indonesian culture itself. So do not be surprised if until now we can still enjoy the diversity of types of webbing as one of the artistic and cultural instruments that are very thick with this nation.

Woven art itself is believed to belong to the Malay community. A work resulting from weaving activities since ancient times. Not starting from crafts, but for wall purposes. Yes, the walls are woven. Starting from the use of string instruments, roots, to rattan and bamboo.

Bamboo as a woven material. Source: istockphoto.com
Bamboo as a woven material. Source: istockphoto.com

This becomes very interesting to explore for a moment as part of our concern for the rich culture and arts of the Indonesian nation. Therefore, here we will discuss starting from what the art of weaving is, its brief history, to the types of weaving itself.

Definition of Woven Art

In simple terms, the art of weaving can be understood as a process of crossing the basic ingredients of weaving from various kinds of plants to form one strong and beautiful clump.

Plant materials that are generally used as the basic ingredients of woven are taken from nature directly. Among others, such as sticks, rattan, bamboo, roots, reeds, pandanus, mengkuang, jut and many more. In which all types of materials will be dried first before weaving or processing.

As for the artistic aspect or artistic value of a plait, we can see it in the woven motif itself. The various woven motifs are not only a reflection of artistic value, but also as evidence of how rich this nation is.

The History of Woven Arts

The history of weaving in Indonesia can be understood in two ways. The first approach states that weaving is a genuine skill of the Malays, including Indonesians. This is supported by the discovery of dwellings and pottery made of wicker which is not found in other areas.

At that time, weaving was one of the women’s jobs. Even so, this activity is not intended as a livelihood, but as a filler for women’s free time. More than that, skill in weaving makes a woman considered to have complete femininity.

Weaving process. Source: unsplash.com
Weaving process. Source: unsplash.com

In terms of usability, in the past, webbing was intended for everyday use. Sometimes it is also used as a gift and also as a delivery package when visiting family or relatives. Therefore, the size also adjusts to the needs. Large size if used as a travel storage tool.

According to another approach, the origin and development of the art of weaving came from the followers of Sunan Gunung Jati who deliberately taught various kinds of handicrafts to attract people to embrace Islam. Unexpectedly this method is quite effective. Until not only the very rapid development of Islam to spread in Central Java and West Java. but also the webbing itself also develops.

Types of webbing

Based on the existing literature, the types of webbing are divided into several categories. At least in two, based on the material and based on the physical appearance. More details as follows:

Based on material

The types of webbing based on the materials used can be grouped into several classifications as follows:

  • Woven leaves of mengkuang, such as mats, serving hoods, used clothes, and others.
  • Pandan leaf woven, such as prayer mats and wall hangings.
  • Woven bamboo, in the form of a rice holder, a place for clothes, nyiru, bags, and others.
  • Woven rattan, which is processed into baskets, children’s swings, and others.
  • Woven sticks, for fruit containers and egg containers
  • Weaved banana stems, such as a tobacco holder, betel holder, and others
  • Weaved rope, for bags, key chain decorations, and more.

Based on their physical characteristics

Webbing based on its physical characteristics is divided into three categories, namely:

  1. Flat webbing
    This type of webbing is made flat and wide. Flat wicker is usually used as traditional house booths, mats, room dividers, and other decorative items. Flat webbing can be formed with various patterns and shapes. Pattern formation requires extra precision and hand expertise in forming woven patterns and grooves.
  2. Three-dimensional webbing
    This webbing is a development of traditional woven forms that have a simple shape and is emphasized on artistic value and functionality. For example, bags, chairs, containers, lanterns, and others. Also read: Techniques for Applying Decorative Variety to Textile Materials
  3. Macrame
    Macrame is the art of knotting materials with the help of a hook such as a needle. With this technique, it is possible for the crafter to be able to form joints and create new, better patterns. Woven objects made with macrame, such as tablecloths, doormats, and souvenirs.

Interested in Woven Crafts?

Maybe from some types of webbing you just found out now. That’s because not all types of woven crafts are popular in the community. Well, of the many types of webbing, is there something that catches your eye?

Some examples of Harmoni Kreasi woven products. Source: harmonikreasi.com
Some examples of Harmoni Kreasi woven products. Source: harmonikreasi.com

If by chance you are interested in woven crafts to be used as a complement to interior decoration, or for souvenir purposes, for example, but you are confused about where to get them, then in this case we can and are ready to help meet your interior decoration needs with traditional works, one of which is woven products. .

So that’s a brief review about traditional woven arts that is important for us to know together. Don’t forget to share and check out other interesting reviews. Goodbye and thank you very much.