Women Master Weavers Stress the Importance of Upholding Traditional Arts

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 04 September 2026 – Matua’u’u – the traditional Samoan master weavers are stressing the importance of continuing the traditional Samoan art of weaving despite the changes and modern mats entering Samoa.

Master weaver Repeka Tautala of Siutu, Salailua, Savai’i, said the Samoan traditional fine mats have a significant place in Samoan culture and must continue to be made using the traditional knowledge and skills passed down by Samoan ancestors through the generations.

Tautala also expressed concern that many young people are no longer interested in learning and practising the traditional art of weaving.

The Weaving Society had a popular stall at the Samoa Tourism Authority Village during the Measina Arts and Cultural Festival this week, carrying out daily exhibitions of weaving and displaying the materials and their preparations using traditional knowledge.

The programme brings together weavers from Sa’anapu, Sala’ilua and Lalomauga.

Putting the final touches of tapa table mats.

The team demonstrated traditional weaving techniques and showcasing handmade products made from natural resources available on Samoan land.

The Society produces a range of traditional items, including ‘ie toga (traditional fine mats), ‘ie tasi or ‘ie vaivai (the finest and highest-quality fine mats woven by Samoan women), ili (traditional fans) and siapo.

The final product of Ietoga fine mats that hold high value in Samoan culture.

Tautala acknowledged the Measina Weeklong Programme, saying their participation allows the public to see that Women’s Committees in villages continue to practise and preserve traditional weaving skills.

The Weaving Society continues to promote traditional weaving as an important part of Samoan cultural knowledge and craftsmanship, while giving weavers an opportunity to share their skills with the wider public and future generations.