During this training, participants will discover the world of artisanal braiding through a historical, technical, and practical approach. They will begin by acquiring a basic understanding of the history of braiding, exploring its origins, its utilitarian and symbolic functions, as well as the diversity of materials used worldwide. Particular attention will be paid to the Italian tradition and the essential role played by the Mogliano district, renowned for its expertise and artisanal heritage.

Upon completion of the training, participants will be able to:

• Select, prepare, and condition materials according to the techniques used.
• Understand and analyze the history and specific characteristics of braided materials.
• Perform the essential steps of braiding with willow, cellulose rope, and rattan (Midollino).
• Apply appropriate finishes and protective treatments to the finished objects.

This training program offers a gradual immersion into the world of traditional braiding. Participants will first discover how this practice, present for millennia in many cultures, has evolved over time. They will understand the various functions that braiding has fulfilled—utilitarian, symbolic, and social—as well as the variety of materials used throughout the world. Special attention will be given to Italy and the Mogliano district, an emblematic region where braiding has shaped the economic and cultural identity of the area.

By handling different materials themselves, trainees will learn to recognize them, observe their properties, and imagine their possible applications. They will be guided to understand what distinguishes a flexible fiber from a rigid one, what gives a material its strength, and what allows a particular shape to be achieved. This exploratory phase will provide an essential foundation for later choosing the materials best suited to their personal projects.

The technical instruction will focus on acquiring the fundamental techniques of braiding. Through demonstrations, progressive exercises, and individualized guidance, each participant will be able to grasp the fundamentals necessary for creating a woven object. Finally, particular attention will be paid to the emotional dimension of handcrafted work. Through practice, participants will learn to appreciate the value of a handmade object: the time invested, the meticulousness of the gesture, the patience required, and the importance of attention to every detail. This intimate understanding of the process will lead them to see woven objects and craftsmanship in general in a new light, perceiving what they embody in terms of expertise, heritage, and commitment.

Schedule

Day 1 Theoretical Introduction

Morning

• Global historical overview with stories, images, and videos
• Project examples

Afternoon

• In-depth exploration of different materials, discovering their origins and properties
• End-of-day test to assess participants' theoretical knowledge

Day 2 Willow

Morning

• Material selection
• Material and workstation preparation
• Creating the base

Afternoon

• Working with the willow product
• Finalizing and closing the product

Day 3 Rope Cellulose

Morning

• Preparation of the material and workstation
• Setting up the work area
• Creating the base

Afternoon

• Working with the cellulose rope product
• Finishing and closing the product

Day 4 Rattan (Midollino)

Morning

• Preparation of the material and workstation
• Setting up the work area
• Creating the base

Afternoon

• Working with the rattan (Midollino) product
• Finalizing and closing the product

Day 5 Presentation of the Work

Morning

• Finishing and application of a protective product

• Presentation of all the completed items
• Introduction to marketing: market analysis, how to recognize sustainable (for people and the environment) and high-quality woven items
• Time for questions and discussion

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop sessions
• Active participation and experimentation are encouraged
• Supportive and respectful approach to each participant's individual needs and perspectives

• Group and individualized monitoring of work, regular check-ins
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Group presentation
• Attendance sheet for each half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa