Traditionally in Melanesia culture, men learn to carve and
women learn to weave. For some women, particularly those from Rennell and
Bellona Province (often shortened to Renbel), weaving is a way of life and a
part of their identity.
The process of turning pandanus leaves into weaving materials occurs over several weeks. Firstly, the spiky leaves are removed from the trees and soaked in water with the husks of coconuts for about a week to make them soft and pliable. Then they are hung up to dry in the sun for several weeks.
rolls of pandanus leaves
Black pandanus is made by boiling the pandanus with the leaves of the Talisay or Indian almond tree for 2–3 hours before commencing the drying process. When they are dry but still flexible, the spikes are removed from the edges and the leaves are cut into strips using a special tool.
Custom-made tool for splitting pandanus
The handles of shoulder bags are made from the bark of the Wa'ai tree, not pandanus, as this is less fibrous and stronger.
