Among the popular
traditional industries al-Suwayda
governorate is most famous
for the straw industry.
Straw
plates and trays are
handmade objects usually
used for domestic and
ornamental purposes, and
they enjoy remarkable
tourist popularity given the
beauty of their carvings and
colors and creative
dexterity.
These products are found
in local markets,
particularly in the shops
specialized in eastern
industries, as well as at
the governorate's museums.
Straw industry was first
originated by women in rural
areas, and all it needed was
the natural straw which
women used to collect during
harvest time. Wheat stalks
would be soaked in water for
specific time. Later, straw
would be dyed with different
colors. Women showed
skillfulness in inlaying the
stalks and weaving them,
where lines would get
entangled forming patterns
with diverse colors and
shapes inspired by everyday
reality and the surrounding
environment.
In order to preserve
this deeply-rooted industry
and not be lost in oblivion,
Sweida governorate always
tries to allocate a room for
the straw industry in all
handicraft exhibitions.
Among other purposes, such
exhibitions aim at helping
trainees to master this
intricate industry. SANA