March is National Crafting Month all over the globe. This is a month dedicated to crafters and all sorts of creatives and their work.
There’s such a broad range of crafts and artwork, and the month-long event is meant to laud each one, regardless of medium.
Exploring the Philippines’ Diverse Craft Culture
Honoring the nation’s skilled artisans and crafters
In the Philippines, National Craft Month is a great and fun way to showcase the rich cultural heritage and creativity deeply embedded in Filipino craftsmanship.
From traditional handicrafts to modern crafty artistry, the Philippines comes alive with a myriad of activities and events that honor the nation’s skilled artisans and crafters.
Helping promote and pass on trade and crafting skills
This March, you can help promote and pass on trade, crafting skills, and more fun abilities to your friends and family, especially to the next generation of Filipino kids who are meant to carry the torch onward and forward.
Throughout March, various events, workshops, exhibitions, and artisan markets take place across the country, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to immerse themselves in the world of crafting.
Exploring Filipino Crafts
Creative work linked to a country’s culture
The idea of crafting isn’t new to Filipinos. In fact, we are a crafty people who have created and perfected unique crafting products for generations now.
Throughout our people’s history, you can find crafty and creative work inextricably linked with the country’s culture. Different sorts of craft products have become markers of people hailing from different parts of the Philippines.
1. Weaving (Abel Iloko) in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur
Specializing in traditional craft of loom weaving
The province of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur in the northern part of the Philippines specializes in the traditional craft of loom weaving.
Their woven products are known as ‘Abel Iloco’ textiles, and they come in different fun and cute color combinations. These textiles can be used in multiple ways. For one, they can be used as decorations if you hang them up on walls.
Celebrate National Crafting Month by exploring the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of these handwoven fabrics, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Ilocano people.
2. Pottery in Quezon Province
Pottery is fast becoming one of the most popular hobbies, especially as pottery shops offering classes are popping up throughout Metro Manila.
While these new spaces help introduce pottery as a potential new hobby, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better crafters than the people of Quezon Province. Located in the CALABARZON region, Quezon Province.
The province is renowned for its pottery-making tradition, so the next time you visit Quezon Province, dedicate a single day to join a pottery course with your friends and family.
Be immersed in the art of pottery, learning from skilled artisans who create beautiful clay pots, jars, and other earthenware using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
You can even add decorations to your work, from adding paint and fun appliques, you’re sure to find joy from working with your hands during pottery.
3. Basketry in Palawan
Intricate baskets using indigenous materials
Palawan, known as the “Last Frontier” of the Philippines, is home to skilled basket weavers who craft intricate baskets and containers using indigenous materials like rattan, bamboo, and nito vine.
These baskets can be the perfect gifts for anyone who appreciates functional decorations. Baskets from Palawan are known to be sturdy, but they are also well-designed. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. You can even get cute tiny ones for kids.
4. Shellcraft in Cebu
Transforming shells into exquisite jewelry, accessories, and home decors
Cebu, a province in the Visayas region, is famous for its shellcraft industry, where artisans transform shells collected from the coastal waters into exquisite jewelry, home decor, and accessories.
The artisans take extreme pride and care in cutting and shaping shells into fun shapes. Some are enhanced even further with paint, glitter, and other similar materials.
During National Craft Month, visitors can discover the uniqueness of Cebu’s shellcraft creations, which reflect the island’s coastal heritage and artistic flair.
5. Bamboo Craft in Bohol
Bamboo is abundant in Bohol. As such, local artisans have harnessed the versatility of bamboo and have created various handmade products.
Raw bamboos are smoothed before artisans glue them together to create each specific crafted project.
From furniture and home decor to musical instruments and handicrafts, bamboo craft in Boholshowcases the skill and creativity of local artisans.
Participating in National Crafting Month This March
While traditional crafts remain cherished, the Philippines also embraces modern artistry and innovation. Contemporary Filipino artisans experiment with new mediums, techniques, and styles, infusing traditional craftsmanship with a fresh perspective.
For enthusiasts looking to celebrate National Craft Month, there is no shortage of opportunities to get involved. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a newcomer eager to explore a new hobby, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this March.
Local hobby associations and craft stores often organize workshops and classes where participants can learn new craft abilities, from knitting and sewing to painting and woodworking.
These hands-on experiences not only provide practical knowledge but also foster a sense of camaraderie among participants, creating lasting memories and friendships.
Knitting and Crocheting
Knitting and crocheting are two great activities to try this National Craft Month. These are particularly good art project ideas if you’re looking to do it with your kids since there are patterns that are easy to follow so you don’t get stuck.
For example, you could make a fridge top cover or make stuffed animals as gifts for kids.
There are different mediums to choose from as well, from wool to yarn. You can also choose tools that don’t have a sharp point to make it kid-safe.
Home Cooking
One of the best ways to express yourself is through food. Food can be awesome reminders and cultural markers in the Philippines. You don’t even have to shell out much money for resources.
You can always look inside your fridge to see what you have in stock and find inspiration from different regional dishes to recreate at home.
Embracing Creativity This National Craft Month
In celebrating National Craft Month, Filipinos not only honor their rich cultural heritage but also embrace the spirit of creativity and innovation that fuels their craft traditions.
It’s a time to celebrate the magic of handmade creations and the joy of sharing them with your friends, family, and kids.
As the Philippines celebrates National Craft Month, Camella invites you, from whichever walk of life you come from, to participate in the festivities and discover the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship.
At Camella, we recognize that Filipino crafting is the glue between tradition and the future. We feature Filipino craftsmanship in our developments, highlighting the unique craft and trade in each area our masterplanned communities belong to.
From traditional to modern artistry, crafting serves as a powerful medium for self-expression, cultural preservation, and community building.
Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or a curious beginner, there’s never been a better time to explore crafting than this National Craft Month.
So grab your materials, unleash your imagination, and let the magic of creativity inspire you this National Craft Month and beyond.
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