Jajim Mashte is one of the most valuable cultural heritages of Iran, which is rooted in the rich history and culture of this land. This hand-woven art, with its geometric designs and vivid colors, is a symbol of the originality and creativity of Iranian women.
History and geographic distribution
Jajim mashtebafi art has been popular in many regions of Iran, especially in nomadic and rural areas. According to the weather conditions, available raw materials and local culture, each region uses specific and distinctive designs and colors in woven mashte jajims.
Raw materials and production process
The main raw material for weaving Jajim Mashte is wool, which is ready for weaving after washing, cleaning and spinning. In some regions, cotton thread is also used. The production process of jajim mashte includes the following steps:
Preparation of wool: wool is washed, cleaned and then spun.
Dyeing: The spun wool is dyed with natural or chemical dyes.
Weaving: Long threads are stretched on the weaving loom.
Weaving: Using a comb and a mako, transverse threads are woven on the threads and the desired design is created.
Dewatering and drying: After finishing weaving, Jajim is washed and spread out to dry.
Designs and roles
Jajim Mashate designs are usually geometric and simple and consist of repeating one or more simple geometric shapes. These designs are combined with cheerful and lively colors and give Jajim a special beauty.
The unique features of Jajim Mashte
Simplicity and beauty: simple yet beautiful designs are one of Jajim Mashate’s distinctive features.
High resistance: due to wool material and strong texture, mashte jajims are very resistant and durable.
Variety of colors: The use of diverse and harmonious colors doubles the beauty of Jajim Mashte.
Applications of jajim mashte
Because of their beauty and elegance, Mashte Jajims are used in the production of a wide range of textile products, including tablecloths, bedspreads, cushions, underlays, wall coverings, bags, wallets, etc. Also, mashte jajims are also used in interior decoration.
Challenges and solutions
Like many other handicrafts, the art of Jajim Mashtebafi is facing challenges such as decreasing demand, lack of skilled labor and competition with industrial products. To deal with these challenges, the following actions can be taken:
Supporting artists: providing financial and support facilities to Jajimbaf artists
Conducting training courses: transferring the necessary knowledge and skills to the young generation
Creation of bazaars and exhibitions: Creating a space to display and sell Jajimbafi products
Promoting the use of handwoven products: encouraging people to use handwoven products and supporting local producers
Turning Jajim Mashte into a brand: Creating a strong brand for Jajim Mashte products can help increase sales and recognition of this art.