If you are interested in crafts, there is a lot to see and shop for in Morocco. We visited several production sites for Moroccan handicrafts, including various women's co-operatives.
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Moroccan crafts you don't want to miss
When travelling in Morocco, it is interesting to learn about Moroccan craftsmanship. Among other things, the famous argan oil, known for its fine properties, is made here. Other examples of crafts include hand-woven carpets and ceramics.
It is often interesting to see both the process and the finished result. Morocco is a country full of strong colours and scents, far from the Scandinavian restraint.
Argan oil
Argan oil is made from argan fruit. The skin is crushed with a stone, the seeds are roasted and then ground into oil. The oil is used for various cosmetic products for the hair, skin and nails, or for cooking. Among other things, we were offered a tasty mess with argan oil and almonds, to dip the bread in.
carpets
Carpet-making is a time-consuming Moroccan craft: one metre takes about three months. The colour comes from saffron, mint and henna, and the patterns vary depending on whether it's nomadic, Berber or Tuareg. We visited Carpet and Hanbal Weaving Co-operative, outside Ouarzazate. Apparently there were good prices for the carpets here, according to the guides.
Ceramics
We also visited the production of ceramic products, like bowls, pots and... of course tagine. The guy sits in an opening in the ground, where he can step around the spinning disc. Pots, saucers and bowls are sold just about everywhere. Colours include saffron, mint and henna, and patterns can be nomadic, Berber or Tuareg.
Scottish Moments says:
I like argan oil for skin and hair! It has become very popular here in the West in recent years. And I understand why.
31 March 2014 - 18:51
Ama de casa says:
Haha! It looked strange, the picture where he was turning - thanks for the explanation.
🙂
Thanks also for the other pictures from your trip - great reading!
🙂
31 March 2014 - 19:31
BP says:
What a job!!! This applies to all the crafts you showcase. Considering how long it takes to tie a carpet, for example, the hourly rate is non-existent. Here you are almost ashamed if you would get the urge to haggle ...
31 March 2014 - 20:50
Ulla & Torgny says:
Bought half a litre of Argan oil with me, nurtures it tenderly.... a fantastic skin care product......
Hugs!
01 April 2014 - 0:22
admin says:
Scottish Moments, I didn't know that before, but now I have realised that it is a popular oil.
Ama de casa, it looked strange in reality at first too...
BP, all the craftsmanship and especially the carpets - what a job!
Ulla & Torgny, glad to hear that it is so good!
01 April 2014 - 6:39
Ditte says:
You really got a lot done in a short time. I guess you then have to go back to enjoy the experience itself. I had ceramic dishes and bowls and a tagine in my luggage. And these are used extensively. They are also beautiful. The tagine was a gift to my boss at the time though...
Nice pictures!
01 April 2014 - 16:54