Mat Weaving

 The Mat weaving is the craft of creating products from strands of plant fibers (cellulosic) using hands and simple tools. This technique produces various items such as mats, mat carpets, baskets, and containers. mat weaving also includes other forms like palm weaving, bamboo weaving, pearl weaving, twig weaving, cham weaving, and basket weaving. Additionally, " chigh weaving" is a subset of mat weaving, where dyed wool threads are incorporated alongside plant fibers to create traditional patterns and designs.

Techniques of Mat Weaving

In Bushehr, local mats or canes that grow in water bodies and rivers are used for weaving. The process begins with a boat trip into the mats to gather suitable materials, which are then brought back to the shore and workshop. Once at the workshop, the mats are cut into thin sheets using a sharp hand tool and softened with care. The weaver relies on experience and mental patterns to weave the fibers and sheets by hand. The woven sheets are further softened by hand, folded, and walked upon until they feel as soft as fabric. A wooden cylinder is then used to pound the woven material, making it pliable and allowing it to be rolled up like fabric for various uses. Sometimes, natural plant dyes are applied to color the mats, which are woven into the mat to create intricate designs. mat, or "buriya," has numerous applications, from walls to roofs of houses. Its porous nature allows air to flow through, and when slightly moistened, it can act as a cooler, refreshing the air.

Application of Mat Weaving

The uses of mat extend beyond these applications; it can also serve as a mat, container, basket, and other structures. Occasionally, a mixture of clay and mat is used to create a structure that functions similarly to reinforced concrete, enhancing the construction's strength. The possibilities for buriya or mat weaving are endless, with each individual utilizing it according to their needs. While mat weaving once played a vital role in daily life, its use has declined in recent times. Nevertheless, there are still many who cherish this craft and work to keep the tradition alive. We hope to see you in the mat weaving workshops and stores in Iran, Bushehr, and the surrounding areas. Here’s to that day!