Traditional Barkcloth Making in Indonesia: An Asia Album

Barkcloth, an ancient fabric cherished by the Indonesian people, is still being made by craftsmen in Bada Valley, Central Sulawesi province, as an inherited megalithic tradition. The fabric is made from the bark of the Bea tree, which is hammered and scraped to make it soft and pliable. The technique of making barkcloth involves using traditional tools and methods passed down through generations, and it takes several days to produce one piece. The finished product is a durable and versatile cloth that can be used for clothing, blankets, and decorative purposes. Despite modernization and the availability of cheaper fabrics, the villagers of Bada Valley continue to make barkcloth as a reminder of their cultural heritage and the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship.