Screw Pine Craft of Kerala

Screw Pine Craft of Kerala is a traditional handicraft that reflects the region’s deep connection with nature and sustainable living. Practiced across several coastal and rural areas of Kerala, this craft uses screw pine leaves (locally known as Thazha) to create a wide range of utility and decorative products. Recognized under the Geographical Indication (GI) Act, the craft preserves indigenous knowledge, eco-friendly techniques, and the livelihood of skilled artisan communities.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The screw pine plant grows abundantly in the marshy and coastal regions of Kerala, making it a naturally available raw material for local communities. Historically, screw pine mats were an essential household item, especially for sleeping and daily use, due to their durability, cooling properties, and comfort in humid climates. Over time, artisans adapted traditional mat-weaving skills to create contemporary lifestyle and decor products, ensuring the craft’s relevance in modern markets.

Location & Artistry

The Screw Pine Craft is widely practiced across coastal and rural regions of Kerala, where screw pine plants grow naturally in abundance. The craft has evolved as a livelihood practice closely linked to the local ecosystem and climate. Generations of artisans, particularly women, have preserved this weaving tradition, passing down skills through oral knowledge and hands-on training.

Artistry in screw pine weaving lies in the precision of leaf preparation and weaving density. Cleaned leaves are split lengthwise without reducing their original length, boiled, soaked, sun-dried, and straightened to achieve an ivory finish. Artisans then weave the leaves diagonally, passing one weft leaf between two warp leaves, creating a strong and flexible structure. High-quality mats can contain up to 22 splints per inch, demonstrating exceptional technical control and craftsmanship.

Raw Material and Preparation Process

The craft begins with the careful selection of mature screw pine leaves. These leaves are cleaned and split lengthwise without disturbing their original length. The long, narrow leaf splints are then boiled and soaked in fresh water overnight to improve flexibility. After soaking, the leaves are sun-dried for a few days until they acquire a distinctive ivory-white color.

Once dried, each leaf is straightened manually using a knife and then rolled and bundled. These prepared leaf splints are stored until weaving begins. This entire process requires precision and patience, as improper handling can weaken the fibers.

Weaving Technique and Craftsmanship

The weaving technique used in Screw Pine Craft of Kerala is highly specialized. The basic weave involves one weft leaf passing diagonally between two warp leaves, creating a strong and flexible structure. The fineness of the product depends on the number of splints used per inch.

• Super-fine mats use 8 to 10 splints per inch.

• High-quality premium mats, made by experienced artisans, can use up to 22 splints per inch, resulting in a smooth, dense, and refined texture.

A distinctive product of this craft is the two-ply screw pine mat, traditionally used for sleeping. It consists of a fine upper layer and a coarser bottom layer, stitched securely at the edges for strength and comfort.

Product Range and Design Elements

Screw Pine Craft products are known for their versatility and understated elegance. Commonly produced items include:

• Table mats and floor mats

• Cushion covers and coasters

• Handbags, beach bags, and box covers

• Beach hats and wall hangings

Many mats and decorative items are embellished with fine hand embroidery, adding aesthetic value while retaining their natural appeal. The designs remain minimal and functional, highlighting the texture and beauty of the material itself.

GI Registration and Legal Recognition

To protect its authenticity and regional identity, the craft received Geographical Indication registration on 22 April 2008.

Name of GI Registered Product: Screw Pine Craft of Kerala
State: Kerala
Certificate Date: 22/04/2008
Applicant:
Development Commissioner (Handicrafts),
Ministry of Textiles, Government of India,
West Block No. 7, R.K. Puram, New Delhi, India

This recognition ensures that only genuine products made using traditional methods within Kerala can be marketed under this name.

Final Thoughts

Screw Pine Craft of Kerala stands as a fine example of sustainable craftsmanship rooted in tradition and innovation. With its eco-friendly materials, skilled weaving techniques, and functional elegance, the craft continues to find relevance in both domestic and global markets. GI recognition further strengthens its identity, safeguarding the artisans’ heritage while promoting Kerala’s rich handicraft legacy.

Explore more:

• Traditional Handicrafts of Kerala and Their GI Significance
  

• Traditional Handcrafted Indian Stone Sculptures here.