Palm frond craft, a traditional craft that resists extinction

The palm frond craft is one of the prominent traditional crafts that characterize the cities of southern Tunisia, which are abundant in palm oases.

The palm straw and fronds have been used for ages for the manufacture of baskets, umbrellas, types of carpets, and strong ropes.

The craft of palm fronds needs concentration and patience. Women of southern Tunisia used to learn it since childhood, but today the craft is declining due to the low demand.

Some exhibitions, held annually in Tunis, include pavilions for this industry. The products differ according to the different types of palms from which the fronds are taken; each palm tree has its products and quality.

Also, the palm fronds differ according to the different parts of the palm from which it is taken. Women working in this craft dry the fronds before they start their work.