The handicrafts tradition is rooted in the scarce resources that the
island had to offer. Although this meant that handicrafts have evolved
through limited means, Fuerteventura is home to a rich textile tradition which includes
embroidery, needlework, crocheted rosettes and lace.
Embroidery
This handiwork consists in removing threads from the fabric in order to form different designs on the woven material: these pictures are often inspired by wildlife or architectural motifs which have been taken from nature
The women from Fuerteventura have deservedly won recognition for this handiwork, this delicate art, which they generally carry out in their own homes and it is still common to see them sitting in the doors of their houses, bending over their embroidery frames and working on spotlessly white cloth.
The embroidery designs elaborated in Fuerteventura are very characteristic and they stand out for their delicacy and their excellence. This is one of the island crafts which has achieved greatest recognition on its own individual merits, and according to historians, it originates from Portugal.
Buying and owning embroidered table linen is always a good investment, as they are unique pieces which have been worked with love and dedication.
Fabrics
Wools, both in their original colours and dyed, are generally used to make blankets which are produced from the yarn which is then woven on large wooden looms, and, later, various cloths are sewn together to obtain the sizes required for different uses. A large range of designs are produced on these fabrics, and among the most common are the spike and dog's tooth check. When it comes to colours, blue and pink (always combined with white) are the most popular.
Musical Instruments:
Woodworking acquires its own importance with the production of musical instruments, and the timple and the violin are the most popular along with the guitar and the bandurria.
Boats:
Boatbuilding is also worthy of mention and in all seafaring communities, launches and boats are built and repaired so that they may be used fishing and sports activities.
