RIYADH: Traditional handicrafts, some involving ancient Bedouin techniques, have captivated visitors at the fourth Bait Hail Festival, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Visitors and tourists alike were drawn to pavilions showcasing cultural heritage and the artistry of ancestors who integrated the crafts into daily life.
Wicker (Al-Khoos) crafting uses palm fronds to make bags, mats, brooms and more by weaving dry, cleaned and dried fronds.
The fronds are bundled, soaked until soft, then sewn together, with limbs trimmed and thorns removed, ready for painting and tool-making.
Wicker products are sold in shops and traditional markets across the region, and many Hail residents still use them today, the SPA added.
Meanwhile, several Sadu weavers stood out, showcasing authentic artworks and helping revive the hand-sewn craft after years of decline. The skilled artisans have spent years mastering and producing intricate pieces.
Sadu weaving uses natural materials like camel hair, goat and sheep wool, crafted with tools such as a spindle, needle and wooden pegs, according to the SPA.
In some cases, sadu weaving is combined with wickerwork, producing distinctive pieces that blend traditional techniques.
