Handicraft

Sardinian handicraft has preserved its unique identity from external influences over the centuries thanks to the island's insularity. In fact, the whole island boasts fascinating crafts, which still today maintain the originality of their roots, evident in the simplicity of objects in daily use and the individual character of each piece of artwork, created by a genuine artist.

• Weaving
  Weaving is one of the most diffused crafts on the island and visitors can admire the fine creations which are typical of popular weaving: blankets, tablecloths, tapestry and the classic rugs. However, more interesting examples of this fascinating craft can be found at Dorgali, Oliena, Atzara, Villagrande Strisaili, Fonni and Isili.
  
  
• Embroidery
  The fine art of embroidery can be seen in the beautiful decorations on the traditional, Sardinian costumes and the sacred vestments and altar cloths. The most important embroidery workshops, noted for their skill, are in Oliena, Bosa, Ilbono and Macomer.
  
  
• Goldsmiths and jewellers
  Silver was the most diffused metal among Sardinian jewellers because it used to be extracted from the island's silver mines. However, since the beginning of the 1900s, there has been a gradual increase in the use of gold. Among the most characteristic objects to be found in Sardinia are necklaces, Sardinian wedding rings, brooches and buttons.
  Visitors should not miss the chance to admire the beautiful artwork of the fine goldsmiths to be found at Nuoro, Dorgali, Barisardo and Bosa.
  
  
• Ceramics
  The Sardinian craft of ceramics has ancient origins and dates back to the Nuragic times, slightly modified by the arrival of the Romans on the island. The traditional pottery work, still produced today, is made up of tankards, flasks, jugs for water and wine, as well as religious objects and artwork inspired by folklore and scenes of daily life, such as newly weds on horseback, statues in traditional costumes and both wild and domestic animals. Visitors can admire these beautiful ceramics at the workshops in Siniscola, Orosei, Nuoro and Orani.
  
  
  
• Metalwork
  The island of Sardinia owes a lot to its ore deposits, and the numerous bronze statues dating from the Nuragic period, which have been discovered all over the island, bear witness to the ancient origins of this craft. The working of wrought iron has also always been an important craft on the island and today, as in ancient times, it is used above all to make instruments for hearth-sides and fires, as well as spits and grills of all sizes. However, after many years, artisans have recommenced the production of the characteristic lamps and bed-frames, used to furnish country villas and entire tourist resorts. Visitors must not miss the chance to admire the laboratories where steel blades are produced for the famous Sardinian knives, which have become genuine collectors items. The most well-known laboratories for the working of iron can be found at Nuoro, Macomer, Isili and Dorgali.
  
  
  
• Baskets
  Sardinia abounds in the marshland grasses which are commonly used for reed-weaving and visitors can admire a vast selection of fine objects produced by skilled craftsmen. The most diffused raw materials used are asphodel and raffia leaves, straw, wicker, palms and cane. The most interesting examples of this delicate craft of weaving can be found in Olzai, Ollolai and Montresta.
  
  
  
• Carpentry
  In the past, Sardinian houses were furnished in a rather modest style, with the exception of the wooden chests, which were always exquisitely carved. The wood used traditionally comes for the forests around Nuoro, such as chestnut, durmast and walnut trees, with detailed decorations inspired by geometrical, floral and natural motifs. Visitors can find fascinating laboratories at Orosei, Nuoro, Lanusei, Isili, Orani, Gavoi, Macomer, Ottana and Desulo.
  
  
  
• Leather
  The Sardinian passion for horses has greatly influenced the island's leather production. However, besides articles linked to this sector, such as harnesses and tackle, the whole island boasts a fine production of bags, belts, wallets and numerous other leather articles. The most well-known laboratory for the working of leather is in Dorgali.