Iranian Artisan Welcomes Knowledge-Based Ideas in Making Handicrafts

Elaheh Khademi told ANA that she turns containers that are no longer used in houses into handicrafts using the techniques of painting, illuminated manuscripts, enamel, and miniature.

Enameling is the art of painting, coloring, and ornamenting the surface of metals by fusing over it brilliant colors that are decorated in an intricate design.

In a more scientific approach, the enamel is defined as the colorful result of fusing powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 600 and 900 degrees Celsius. The powder melts, flows, and hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating on metal, glass, or ceramic.

Referring to the role of handicrafts in the national economy, she said the handicrafts sector plays a great role in creating jobs for innovative and creative youth and introducing the country’s ancient culture and civilization.

Exporting handicrafts can also make notable revenues and replace oil incomes in the national economy, she stressed.

Khademi went on to say that her handicrafts can compete with foreign-made rivals, saying that if high-quality raw materials are provided, the Iranian-made products are certainly of higher quality than any other foreign-made products.

Iran ranks first globally for the number of cities and villages registered by the World Crafts Council with 14 entries.

The city of Shiraz has been named a “world city of handicrafts.” The city of Malayer has been made a global hub for woodcarving and carved wood furniture, and the city of Zanjan has gained the title of a “world city of filigree.”

Ceramics, pottery vessels, handwoven cloths as well as personal ornamentations with precious and semi-precious gemstones are traditionally exported to Iraq, Afghanistan, Germany, the US, the UK, and other countries.

4155/g