Indigenous Creative Crafts

Group 2 Members
Bali, Yasnor
Banac, Ren
Magangcong
Angin

Section B
SY: 2023-2024
Midterm

Instructor
Ms. Jonaihma M. Palman
 NEGROS ORIENTAL
 Origin of the place and its people
Negros Oriental’s name has historical roots. “Negros” is believed to have been derived from the
dark-skinned natives the Spanish encountered when they arrived in the area. “Oriental” is Spanish for
“eastern,” indicating its location on the eastern side of the island of Negros.
The people of Negros Oriental have a rich tradition of craftsmanship. One notable example is the
production of baklad baskets, which are intricately woven baskets used for various purposes. This craft
has been passed down through generations and continues to be an important part of the local economy.
3 KNOWN PRODUCTS PRODUCE BY THIS REGION
1. Bakat Baskets
2. Shell craft
3. Wooden Utensils
1. Bakat Baskets is a traditional basket that are
typically crafted from indigenous materials such as
bamboo or rattan. They are handwoven by local
artisans and are valued for their durability and
intricate designs. The bakat baskets are used for
various purposes, including storage and
transportation of goods, and are a significant part of
the province’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

 Origin of the Crafts

The “bakat basket” is a traditional woven basket from Negros Oriental in the Philippines. It’s called
“baka” because of its resemblance to a cow’s horn. These baskets are intricately woven from native
materials like bamboo or rattan and are used for various purposes such as carrying fruits, vegetables, or
other goods. They are also sometimes used as decorative items or gifts. The exact origin of the bakat
basket is not well-documented, but it has been part of the local culture in Negros Oriental for generations,
showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of the people in the region.
 Creating bakat basket involves several steps:
1. Preparing Materials: Gather bamboo strips or other suitable materials.
2. Soaking: Soak the bamboo strips in water to make them flexible for weaving.
3. Weaving Base: Start weaving the base of the basket by intertwining the bamboo strips in a circular
pattern.
4. Building Up Walls: Gradually build up the walls of the basket by weaving the bamboo strips in
an upward direction.
5. Shaping: Shape the basket as desired, ensuring it has a stable base and even walls.
6. Finishing Touches: Trim any excess bamboo strips and secure the ends to prevent unraveling.
7. Drying: Allow the basket to dry thoroughly to strengthen its structure.
8. Decorating (optional)Optionally, you can add decorative elements or patterns to the basket using
additional materials or weaving techniques.
 Some common uses and/or function include:
1. Storage Bakat: baskets are used for storing fruits, vegetables, grains, and other household items.
 2. Transportation: They are often used for carrying goods from one place to another, especially in
markets or during harvest seasons.
3. Decoration: Bakat baskets are sometimes used as decorative pieces in homes or as part of cultural
displays.
4. Gifts: They can be given as gifts, especially during festivals or ceremonies.
5. Crafts: Bakat baskets are also used in crafting activities, such as weaving or basket-making
workshops, preserving traditional skills and techniques.
6. Utility: They can serve as laundry baskets, picnic baskets, or even as containers for gardening
purposes.

2. Shell craft refers to the art or craft of creating

decorative or functional items using shells. It can
involve a wide range of techniques, including
carving, shaping, polishing, and assembling shells
into various designs. Common shell craft items
include jewelry, home decor items like frames or
mirrors, ornaments, and even intricate sculptures.
It’s a traditional art form in many coastal
communities and has been practiced for centuries
around the world.
 Origin of the Crafts
Shellcrafts products can be traced back to ancient civilizations worldwide, where shells were utilized
for practical purposes such as tools and utensils, as well as for decorative and ceremonial objects. In
Negros Oriental, Philippines, the tradition of shellcraft likely began with indigenous communities
who used shells in their daily lives and cultural practices. Over time, this practice evolved into a
skilled craft, influenced by Spanish colonization and later by the region’s rich marine resources.
Today, shellcraft in Negros Oriental is a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the cultural
heritage and craftsmanship of the local artisans.
 Here are the basic steps you can follow: Remember to be patient and have fun with the process.
Shell crafting is all about creativity and imagination!
1. Gather Materials: Collect a variety of shells in different sizes and shapes. You’ll also need a base
for your sculpture, which could be a sturdy piece of wood, a rock, or a pre-made figurine base.
2. Design: Plan out the basic shape and structure of your human figure. You might want to sketch it
out on paper first to get an idea of how the shells will fit together.
3. Assemble the Body: Start by attaching the larger shells to the base to form the torso, head, arms,
and legs. Use strong glue or epoxy to secure them in place. Arrange them in a way that resembles
a human figure.
4. Add Detail: Use smaller shells to add detail to your figure, such as facial features, fingers, toes,
and clothing. You can also use other materials like beads, stones, or driftwood to enhance the
design.
5. Secure and Finish: Once you’re happy with the arrangement, make sure everything is securely
glued in place. Allow the glue to dry completely before handling your shell craft. You can also add
a clear sealant or varnish to protect the shells and give your sculpture a polished finish.
 6. Display: Find a special place to display your shell craft human figure where it can be admired by
others. Enjoy your unique creation!

3. Wooden Utensils

Wooden utensils refer to tools and implements crafted from locally sourced wood by indigenous
communities. These utensils are often deeply rooted in tradition and culture, serving various purposes
such as cooking, eating, and food preparation. Examples include wooden spoons, bowls, plates,
ladles, and spatulas, among others. They reflect the resourcefulness and ingenuity of indigenous
peoples in utilizing natural materials to meet their daily needs.
 Origin of the Crafts
The origin can be traced back to the indigenous peoples of the area who have been using wood
for centuries due to its abundance and versatility. The craftsmanship has been passed down through
generations, with each artisan adding their own unique touch to the designs. Today, these utensils are
not only functional but also serve as symbols of cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
 Making wooden utensils can be a rewarding craft. Here are the general steps:
1. Selecting Wood: Choose a hardwood like maple, cherry, or walnut, as they are durable and food-
safe.
2. Designing: Sketch out the design of your utensil, considering its purpose and ergonomics.
3. Cutting: Cut the wood into a rough shape using a saw or a bandsaw.
4. Shaping: Use a carving knife, chisel, or gouge to shape the rough cut wood into the desired form.
5. Sanding: Smooth the surface of the utensil with sandpaper, starting with coarse grit and gradually
moving to finer grit for a polished finish.
6. Finishing: Apply a food-safe finish like mineral oil, beeswax, or food-grade varnish to protect the
wood and enhance its appearance.
7. Final Touches: Inspect the utensil for any rough spots or imperfections and make any necessary
adjustments.
8. Curing: Allow the finish to fully cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before using
the utensil.
 9. Maintenance: Periodically reapply finish as needed and hand wash the utensil with mild soap and
water to keep it clean and well-maintained.

 Wooden utensils have various uses and functions, including:

1. Cooking: Wooden spoons, spatulas, and ladles are commonly used for stirring, flipping, and
serving food while cooking.
2. Serving: Wooden bowls, plates, and trays are used for serving food, enhancing the presentation of
dishes during meals.
3. Mixing: Wooden mixing spoons and paddles are ideal for mixing ingredients in bowls or pots
without scratching the surface.
4. Tossing: Wooden salad tongs are gentle on delicate greens and are commonly used for tossing
salads.
5. Eating: Wooden forks, spoons, and chopsticks provide a natural and eco-friendly alternative to
plastic or metal utensils for eating meals.
6. Baking: Wooden rolling pins and pastry brushes are often used in baking for rolling out dough
and applying glazes.
7. Grilling: Wooden skewers are popular for grilling kebabs and other skewered foods, adding a
rustic touch to outdoor cooking.