Weaving Harakeke: Flax Art and Crafts

Weaving Harakeke: Flax Art and Crafts

Traditional Māori weaving techniques Creating putiputi and kono Year 7-8 Art & Cultural Studies

Understanding Harakeke

Native New Zealand plant (Phormium tenax) Strong, flexible fibers perfect for weaving Sustainable resource when harvested correctly Central to Māori culture for over 1000 years

Sustainable Harvesting Methods

Making Putiputi (Flax Flowers)

Select 4-6 prepared flax strips Create the flower center by rolling one strip tightly Add petals by folding remaining strips around center Secure with gentle twisting motion

Creating Kono (Square Baskets)

Start with 8 flax strips of equal length Create a cross pattern with 4 strips as base Weave remaining strips over and under Fold up sides and secure corners

Cultural Wisdom

'Ko au te taiao, ko te taiao ko au' - I am the environment and the environment is me This whakatauki reminds us of our connection to nature and our responsibility to care for it through sustainable practices like traditional harakeke weaving.