# Bilum

Template:Infobox cultural artifact
The bilum is a traditional string bag widely used in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and neighboring parts of Melanesia. It is handwoven using natural fibers, wool, or synthetic threads and serves both practical and cultural purposes. The bilum is a significant icon of PNG’s heritage, symbolizing resilience, craftsmanship, and cultural identity.

## History and Cultural Significance

The bilum has been used for centuries in Papua New Guinea as an essential tool for daily life. Traditionally, women wove bilums using fibers from plants like pandanus, sisal, or tree bark, creating bags that were strong, durable, and multipurpose. Beyond its utilitarian function, the bilum holds cultural significance. Its designs and patterns often indicate the weaver’s clan, region, or personal identity.
Bilums are used to carry a variety of items, including food, firewood, personal belongings, and even babies. In some communities, a woman’s skill in bilum weaving is considered a marker of her industriousness and readiness for marriage. Bilums also play a role in ceremonies, where they are exchanged as gifts or used in rituals.

## Weaving Techniques

The process of creating a bilum is labor-intensive and requires expert skill. Weaving involves: 1. **Fiber Preparation:** Traditional bilums use plant fibers that are stripped, dried, and twisted into string. 2. **Knotting:** The technique used is a looping or knotting method, different from traditional weaving on a loom. 3. **Design Creation:** Patterns are woven into the bilum using colored fibers or dyed strings, often reflecting local symbols, flora, and fauna.
Modern bilums incorporate synthetic threads or wool, allowing for more vibrant colors and diverse patterns. These innovations have made bilums more appealing to international markets.

## Modern Usage

While the bilum remains a staple in rural PNG, it has also gained prominence in urban areas and international fashion. Modern bilums are used as handbags, backpacks, or decorative items. They are sold in markets and exported globally, providing income for local artisans.
Several initiatives and organizations in Papua New Guinea support bilum weaving as a form of economic empowerment for women. Programs like the PNG Women’s Resource Centre promote bilum weaving as a sustainable livelihood.

## Variations

Bilums vary across regions in PNG:
* **Highlands Bilums:** Characterized by bold geometric patterns and earthy tones.
* **Coastal Bilums:** Often lighter in design and made with more colorful materials.
* **Ceremonial Bilums:** Larger and elaborately designed, used during festivals or important events.

## Cultural Preservation

The art of bilum weaving faces challenges from modernization and the availability of cheap, mass-produced bags. However, efforts by cultural organizations and NGOs aim to preserve this traditional craft. Bilums are recognized as a unique cultural asset of PNG and are often showcased in international exhibitions and cultural festivals.

## Symbolism

The bilum is more than just a bag; it is a symbol of connection and community. The weaving process itself is seen as a metaphor for life, resilience, and the interconnectedness of people. It is a tangible representation of Papua New Guinean identity and pride.

## See Also

* Culture of Papua New Guinea
* Huli Wigmen
* Traditional crafts of Papua New Guinea