Damascus, July 20 (SANA) Syrian artisans are demonstrating centuries-old weaving techniques at the NASTEX 2026 textile exhibition in Damascus, where cultural organizations hope to preserve traditional crafts while creating new economic opportunities for local communities.
The Ministry of Culture’s pavilion features demonstrations of Damascus brocade weaving and Bedouin wool weaving from the Palmyra region, highlighting efforts to safeguard traditional skills that artisans say are increasingly threatened by rising production costs, shortages of raw materials and declining interest among younger generations.
Mohammad al-Shammaa, one of the few remaining Damascus brocade weavers, said preparing a traditional handloom takes about a month before production can begin, while weaving a single meter of multicolored brocade may require two days of continuous work.
“The challenge today is not only producing brocade, but ensuring the craft survives,” he said, citing shortages of silk and the difficulty of attracting younger people to a labor-intensive profession.
The exhibition also highlights the Badia Loom Initiative, which trains women from Palmyra to produce handmade rugs, bags and household textiles using traditional wool-weaving techniques.
Project founders Larisa Laventos and Magda Pantelidou said the initiative aims to provide women with sustainable sources of income while preserving a weaving tradition closely linked to the region’s cultural identity.
Organizers say participation in NASTEX offers an opportunity to market the products, establish partnerships with suppliers and expand production.
The Ministry of Culture says its participation reflects broader efforts to preserve Syria’s intangible cultural heritage by supporting traditional crafts alongside contemporary textile industries.
kA.ABD
