Australia and Oceania

Here’s a list of the unique artisanal crafts that are a must-have for visitors and travelers: 

Tapa cloth is a traditional Fijian handcraft fashioned from the mulberry tree’s inner bark. It is hammered and softened until it produces a thin, malleable sheet on which complicated motifs and patterns are applied. Tapa fabric is frequently used to make garments, wall hangings, and ceremonial items.

You can find Fijian tapa cloth in Levuka, which is a small town on the island of Ovalau. Visitors to Levuka can also find a variety of other handicrafts, including pottery and wood carvings.

A pandanus tree’s leaves are used to make this sort of Fijian basket. These delicately woven baskets are available in various sizes and styles. They are frequently used to transport and store goods like fruits and vegetables. To get the authentic traditional baskets you can head over to Sigatoka which is well-known for its exquisite handwoven hats, mats, and baskets. 

The fibrous bark of the coconut palm tree is used to make the Fijian rope known as Magimagi. It can be woven into beautiful designs and is frequently used for ceremonial rituals.

These include the creation of bowls, cups, and jewelry. The shells of coconuts are a versatile material that may be utilized to create a range of handicrafts. The shells are polished, cleaned, and embellished with conventional Fijian patterns and decorations.

Wood, bone, and coral are just a few of the materials used to create Fijian carvings. They frequently include traditional Fijian patterns like the kava bowl, which in Fijian culture is a representation of hospitality. Canoe prows and tiki figurines are two more common sculptures. The wood carvings range from small souvenirs to large sculptures. The carvings are typically made from native Fijian wood, such as mahogany and vesi, and feature traditional Fijian designs and motifs.

Traditional methods and materials, including clay and natural colors, are used to create Fijian pottery. The pottery is used for both practical and ornamental reasons and is frequently adorned with elaborate motifs and patterns.

These are just a handful of the many exquisite and distinctive handicrafts produced in Fiji. Each work is a monument to the talent and ingenuity of its craftsmen and depicts the rich cultural heritage and customs of the Fijian people. When visiting make sure to check each region for its specialty, such as pearl jewelry in the Savusavu town on the island of Vanua Levu or the capital Suva for clothing and home decor.