Typical handicrafts

Handicraft in Sardinia is one of the most widespread and integrated productions in a social context, maintaining the aesthetics that have distinguished them for years. The "nuorese" is the most typical method, in that they are special souvenirs, each one being unique.

 Weaving
There are few remaining artisans that still weave baskets, mats and hampers by hand. In the "nuorese" method, asphodel is used, being very common throughout the area. Simple or coloured with designs that resemble those used in rug production, the most renowned are those of Ollolai, Lanusei. In Tortolì, mats are produced with rushes.

Wood
Chestnut and cork grow abundantly in Sardinia. In "nuorese", these are widely used to make engraved chests, dressers, and straw-stuffed chairs. The Mamuthones and Merdules masks are also very famous. These are real works of art made from chestnut, cork or pearwood.

Textiles and Leather
Typical products are the tapestries, rugs, blankets, curtains and towels depicting dance, flowers, symmetric geometry, horses, deer and doves. The "nuorese" is used on the loom in Dorgali, and Sarule. Also well-known are the shawls of the traditional costume of Oliena, with embroidered satin. Ulassai is known as the village of weavers, while Ilbono is noted for its laces, and Barisardo for its linen weaving. Dorgali and Oliena are also known for their leather goods such as purses, bags and belts.

Jewellery and bijou
 Of the most common jewellery, there are the rosary beads, crosses and medallions. There are also items used in traditional costume such as buttons, the Sardinian engagement ring in filigree, earrings and pendants. The larger concentration of this craft is to be found in Dorgali and Oliena with works in gold, silver and coral.

Ceramics
Small jugs, pitchers, clay bowls, seemingly simple works, are in fact of great value. They area always modelled on archaeological discoveries. Also well-known is the Brocchetta di Dorgali, initially blown in green glass, its decoration is of "Sa Tunda", a traditional Sardinian bread.

Metalwork
The typical Sardinian knife is a kind of jack-knife, called "S'arresoja" in Sardinian, but also called "Pattadesa", because they are generally forged by the artisans of Pattada, although these knives are produced all over the island. The blade is made from steel, while the handle is made from horn. The more famous knives of the region are made in Gavoi, Fonni and Dorgali. Isili is known for its master knife makers, while in Tonara, the knives are made specifically for cattle herders.