Brazil
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Handicraft is defined as any manual, artistic, non-industrialized art and work technique of non-serial production character, performed by a craftsperson. It is a manifestation of the origin, culture and identity of a people, and one of the richest artistic expressions of a nation.

Each region of Brazil has it own, typical handicraft. In the South and Southeast regions, especially in the States of Santa Catarina and Minas Gerais, products made from banana tree leaves, clay pots, pans, jugs and jars are the most popular. Minas Gerais is also known for its rugs and quilts made by manual loom, pieces produced in tin and decorative stones carved from many different types of minerals.
Tamires Kopp/Ministério do Desenvolvimento Agrário (MDA) Fiber handicraft Enlarge

    Fiber handicraft

In the Midwest region they also focus on embroidery and activities that involve wood, clay, tapestry and works with fruits and seeds. Porcelain animals and clay jugs are quite common in the States of Goiás and Mato Grosso.

Besides the wooden and clay handicraft, the Northeast is known for its famous spool lace made in the State of Ceará. The cotton fiber production techniques originated entirely from the periods of Portuguese colonization are still in use today.  It is worth mentioning the important participation of hay tress works, as well as basketry made from carnauba, bamboo and liana tress works.

Like in the other regions, embroidery is also quite popular in the North. However, the indigenous influence makes the pottery works the most popular crafts in the region. Craftspeople draw their inspirations from two styles: Marajoara and Tapajônica, which are two genuine indigenous styles, with millenary techniques and shapes. Jewelry made from seeds and precious metals is also typical of Amazonas. Activities that involve wood and metal are also common.

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