A traditional weaving technique of the Bedouin
Making woolen carpets with the Palestinian women of Idhna
Tourists can join the women of Idhna in learning and making woolen carpets which are very comfortable and warm in winter. This traditional weaving technique is central to the culture and lifestyle of the Bedouin.
The process of making carpets begins with shearing the sheep and goats and collecting and storing the wool and goat’s hair. The wool or hair is then sorted according to color and length.
The cleaning process begins with the hair being blown and shaken to rid it of any plant residues, thorns, dust or soil. It is then combed and washed with hot or cold water.
The next step is to spin it into yarn using a drop spindle, and then dye it, often in bright colors, using local plants and spices such as henna, turmeric, saffron, cactus and indigo. The traditional colors are black, white, brown, beige and red.
The yarn is then woven on a floor loom made of palm or other wood, according to the same process used in making the Bedouin tents.
Quick overview
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Opening days
Open daily
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Closing days
Friday
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Opening times
From 8:00 am till 2:00 pm
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Accessibility
Accessible to people with disabilities
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How to reach
By taxi:
From the Bethlehem taxi station (near Manger Square) to Hebron taxi station and then to Idhna.
The price is around 17 ILS. - Web
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Reservation & Price
Reservation is required
Visiting Rules
Basic rules:
All visitors are invited to observe the basic rules of respect for the preservation of monuments
Conservative dress code
Covid 19 rules:
Visitors must respect covid 19 safety measures in force