Madeira is a true cradle of artisanal know-how and traditional agricultural activities.
The two craft skills that still persist are embroidery and basketwork.
Embroidery : A true testament to craftsmanship and quality, Madeira embroidery is impressive. Its origins date back to the colonial period. It is believed that noblewomen began embroidering to decorate their homes and clothing. Promoted in the 19th century by an Englishwoman, Elisabeth Phelps, this activity took off thanks to the creation of embroidery schools and exports.
Today, Madeira embroidery has earned an international reputation. It uses materials such as linen, silk, cotton, and organza. The pieces are varied: tablecloths, handkerchiefs, sheets, dresses, shirts, etc. They are adorned with traditional or more modern motifs. Once the embroidery is completed, the fabric is washed, dyed, and stamped, guaranteeing its artisanal authenticity.
Don't hesitate to visit the Embroidery and Crafts Museum in Funchal to learn more about this art. The museum transports you to the romantic atmosphere of a Madeiran home.
To acquire a pretty piece of embroidery, you will find what you are looking for in the shops of Funchal or in the small villages of the island.
Wicker : Wicker basketry is another specialty of the island. The basketry industry dates back to 1850 on the island of Madeira. Production of this craft is concentrated mainly in Camacha, a picturesque village in Madeira.
Made from willow trees, which grow in water-rich soils, wicker undergoes a process of cutting, peeling, and drying before being processed. Each willow can produce 2 to 5 kilos of wicker, which is used to create baskets, suitcases, boxes, furniture, and chairs. It is also used to make agricultural baskets for grape harvests and the famous Monte wicker sleds.
A quick aside about these famous wicker sleds (carreiros do Monte): Originating in the early 19th century, wicker sleds were the first means of transport (before the arrival of the cable car) used by residents to travel between Funchal and Monte. These sleds are mounted on wooden runners and are traditionally handcrafted. Today, they transport several thousand tourists each year.
