Explore the materials, weaving traditions and everyday uses of Philippine banig — a mat made with skill, patience and care.
A banig is a traditional woven mat used in the Philippines. It can be spread out for sitting, resting or sleeping, then put away when it is not needed.
Mats can differ in size, colour, pattern and material. Each piece reflects the choices and work of its maker.
Weaving begins with preparing suitable materials. Depending on the fibre and local practice, strips may be cleaned, dried, cut or coloured before they are woven.
The process and finished design vary. Learning from a maker is a good way to understand a particular mat and its origins.
Explore the craft, materials and practical care of banig.
Learn about traditional Philippine woven mats and their place in everyday life.
Read Guide →Explore the plant materials prepared for weaving and how they can differ by maker.
Read Guide →Discover the preparation, weaving and finishing of a woven mat.
Read Guide →See how a banig can be used for sitting, resting, gatherings and display.
Read Guide →Read practical guidance for cleaning, drying and storing a woven mat.
Read Guide →Find answers about materials, uses and general care.
Read Guide →A banig is both a useful household object and a product of weaving knowledge. Some mats have simple patterns, while others use more detailed arrangements of colour and shape.
Look at the width of the strips, the pattern and the way the edges are finished. These details can reveal some of the preparation and work involved.
The process varies, but it often begins with preparing plant material so it can be woven. A maker may clean, dry and cut the material into strips before interlacing them to create the mat.
Some makers use coloured strips to create a pattern. Once the surface is complete, the edges are finished. Materials and methods can differ from one community or maker to another.
Place a mat on a clean, dry surface and follow the maker’s care instructions when available. Gentle cleaning and complete drying before storage can help protect many woven materials.
Avoid assuming that every mat can be washed or stored in the same way. Different fibres, dyes and finishes may require different handling.
Read the Care GuideLearn more about traditional woven mats.
A banig is a traditional woven mat used in the Philippines. Designs and materials can vary between communities and makers.
A banig can be used for sitting, resting or sleeping. Woven mats may also be used during gatherings or displayed as decorative pieces.
No. Makers use different plant materials depending on local availability and their weaving practices.
Follow the maker’s instructions, clean gently and allow the mat to dry completely before storage. Different materials and finishes may need different care.