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WEAVING
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The origin and development of woven cloth is closely tied to the history of mankind. People learned to weave thousands of years ago using natural grasses, leafstalks, palm leaves, and thin strips of wood.
Weaving is the process of making cloth, rugs, blankets, and other products by crossing two sets of threads over and under each other. Weavers use threads spun from natural fibres like cotton, silk, and wool. But thin, narrow strips of almost any flexible material can be woven.
It is firmly believed that the Phoenicians introduced weaving and dyeing skills in Malta and Gozo. Since classical times, the Maltese Islands have been renowned for the excellence of the local cloth. Roman senator Cicero in his report refers to quantities of Maltese cloth that had been stolen. He also states that Malta had "become a manufactory for weaving women's garments".
The cotton industry thrived up to the early 19th century before declining slowly by the end of the century. Because of the cotton plant, introduced to Malta by the Arabs, nearly every house had its loom, while girls were taught this trade at a very early age. Up to World War I, the Islands produced coarse and finer weaved cotton on traditional handlooms. Today, fabrics are produced by both hand spinning and mechanised means.
The woollen industry remained small, but Gozo today produces useful heavy knitted garments and rugs. You will find a wide range of woollen and fabric garments and accessories including skirts, handbags, ties and wall tapestries. Meanwhile, there is an ever-growing interest amongst Gozitans to revive this traditional craft. Weaving skills are nowadays being regularly taught in appropriate courses for both adults and children at the Wistin Camilleri School for Arts and Crafts.
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Few Photos of Local Weaver in action below ! (Click on image for more photos)
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Alda Weaving
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