Screw pine weaving, known locally using leaves from the kaitha or pandanus plant, is a traditional craft practised largely by women in Kerala's coastal villages. The long, flexible leaves are processed, dried and dyed before being woven into mats, floor coverings, baskets and bags with fine, tightly interlaced patterns.
The craft has historically served practical household needs, particularly floor mats used for sitting and sleeping, while also generating decorative variants for the wider handicraft market. It remains an important source of supplementary income for women in coastal communities of Kollam and Alappuzha districts.
How It Is Made
Mature screw pine leaves are harvested and their thorny edges trimmed before the leaves are boiled or sun-dried to soften and stabilise them. Once dried, the leaves are split into uniform strips, sometimes dyed in bright colours, and then hand-woven into mats or other items.
- Leaves are harvested, trimmed and dried to prepare them for weaving
- Strips are split to a consistent width for even weaving
- Weaving is typically done by hand without mechanical tools
- Larger mats can take several days depending on size and pattern complexity
Coloured strands are sometimes combined with natural beige tones to create geometric border patterns on finished mats.
A Women-Led Coastal Craft Tradition
Screw pine weaving has traditionally been passed down among women in Kerala's coastal households, where the plant grows abundantly along sandy, brackish areas. The craft required no specialised equipment, making it accessible as a home-based livelihood activity for generations of women artisans.
- Predominantly a women-led craft in coastal fishing and farming communities
- Supported today through self-help groups and cooperative marketing efforts
- Valued for its low environmental impact compared to plastic mats
The craft continues to provide supplementary household income in villages along Kerala's southern coastline.
Where to See and Buy Screw Pine Weaving
Villages in Kollam and Alappuzha districts remain the best places to see screw pine weaving in practice, often through women's self-help group units. Government emporiums such as SMSM Institute and local coastal markets also stock finished mats and baskets.
- Check the weave tightness, as a well-made mat should feel firm and even underfoot
- Ask whether natural or synthetic dyes were used for coloured patterns
- Mats can be rolled for easier transport and shipping
Traveller Tips
- Choose tightly woven mats for better durability and comfort
- Buying through women's self-help group outlets directly supports coastal artisan communities
- Rolled mats are easier to pack and transport than folded ones
- Ask about natural versus synthetic dyeing methods if colour-fastness matters to you
Frequently Asked Questions
What is screw pine weaving made from?
It is made from the leaves of the screw pine or kaitha (pandanus) plant, which are dried, split and woven by hand.
Who traditionally practises this craft?
It is traditionally practised by women in Kerala's coastal villages, particularly in Kollam and Alappuzha districts.
What items are made using screw pine weaving?
Floor mats, baskets and bags are the most common products made from screw pine leaves.
Is screw pine weaving environmentally friendly?
Yes, since it uses a naturally growing plant material and avoids plastic, it is considered a low-impact, eco-conscious craft.
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