Top 10 Sustainable Handicrafts of Kerala

Kerala, located in the southern part of India, is known for its beautiful backwaters, palm-lined beaches, and diverse cultural heritage. The state is also known for its rich tradition of handicrafts that are a testament to the state’s artistic and cultural diversity. Kerala’s handicrafts are made using a wide variety of materials such as coconut shells, coir, bamboo, and cane. 

In this blog, we will explore the top 10 sustainable handicrafts of Kerala.

Coconut Shell Handicrafts – Coconut shell handicrafts are a specialty of Kerala. They are made by carving and shaping coconut shells into beautiful and intricate designs. The artisans use simple tools such as chisels and knives to create these beautiful pieces.

Wood Carving – Wood carving is a traditional art form in Kerala. The artisans create exquisite pieces by carving intricate designs on wood. The wood used for carving is usually teak, rosewood, or sandalwood.

Coir Handicrafts – Coir handicrafts are made using the husk of the coconut. The husk is cleaned, dried, and then woven into different shapes and sizes. Coir handicrafts include baskets, mats, and wall hangings.

Handmade Paper – Handmade paper is another popular handicraft of Kerala. The paper is made using a mixture of cotton, jute, and waste paper. The paper is then dyed using natural dyes and used to create various products such as notebooks, diaries, and greeting cards.

Kasavu Sarees – Kasavu sarees are a type of handloom saree that is made using cotton. The sarees are usually white with a gold border. They are a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.

Brass Handicrafts – Brass handicrafts are made by skilled artisans who use traditional techniques to create intricate designs on brass. The brass is first melted and then poured into molds to create various shapes and sizes.

Banana Fiber Handicrafts – Banana fiber handicrafts are made using the stem of the banana plant. The stem is first soaked in water to soften it and then woven into different shapes and sizes. Banana fiber handicrafts include bags, hats, and mats.

Pottery – Pottery is a popular handicraft of Kerala. The artisans use clay to create various products such as pots, vases, and lamps. The clay is first molded into the desired shape and then fired in a kiln.

Bamboo and Cane Products – Kerala is known for its bamboo and cane products. The artisans create various products such as baskets, mats, and chairs using bamboo and cane.

Kathakali Masks – Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala. The dancers wear elaborate masks that depict various characters. The masks are made using natural materials such as clay and paper mache.

Kerala’s handicrafts are a reflection of the state’s rich cultural heritage. The artisans use sustainable materials and traditional techniques to create beautiful and intricate designs. These handicrafts not only provide livelihoods to the artisans but also help to preserve the state’s unique cultural identity.