anyaman

Anyaman is the Filipino term for weaving and the products produced by this craft. It covers a broad range of woven goods, including baskets, mats, hats, bags, trays, and decorative panels, made by communities across the Philippines using locally available plant fibers.

Common materials used in anyaman include rattan and bamboo for structural elements, pandan leaves, buri palm and other palm fibers, nito vines, abaca (Manila hemp), seagrass, and other grasses. In modern practice, artisans may also incorporate synthetic fibers or mixed materials to adjust durability and appearance.

Techniques and forms vary by region but typically involve weaving, plaiting, twining, and sometimes coiling. These methods produce sturdy containers, light mats, and flexible textiles. Typical objects include storage baskets, harvest baskets, cooking mats known as banig, hats, trays, wall hangings, and everyday bags. Patterns and textures often reflect local resources, skills, and cultural preferences.

Cultural and economic context: anyaman has long been an integral part of daily life, trade, and social practice in many communities. It showcases regional resources and aesthetic traditions, and can carry local identity or functional significance. The craft is usually learned within families and communities, with artisans exchanging goods in local markets, fairs, and through other networks.

Contemporary relevance: anyaman remains a living craft, with many artisans continuing traditional techniques while designers adapt them for contemporary fashion and home décor. Initiatives to sustain supply chains, protect traditional knowledge, and promote fair livelihoods help preserve the practice for future generations.