CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Traditional weaving is a popular craft among many ethnic groups in Nigeria. Weaving techniques, equipment, materials, designs and products are almost the same all over. The major equipment for traditional weaving is the loom and it is of two types, that is, the horizontal and the vertical loom. Although there are slight variations in the types of loom used by different ethnic groups across the country. In Yoruba land, though both sexes weave, a number of characteristics differentiate the cloth woven by men from that of women, chief among which is the loom type Traditionally, men weave on a horizontal that produce strip cloths of few inches wide, while the women weave on a vertical broad loom that produce cloth wider in breadth but much shorter in length than those produced by men (Asakitikpi 2007). The fact that the horizontal loom is widely used by men while the vertical loom is mainly used by women remains till date. The product of the loom, that is, hand woven fabrics (called aso-oke by the Yoruba people) has similar value and purpose within the different ethnic groups in Nigeria. Aso-oke, according to Okeke (1991) is the traditional cloth of the Yoruba people of South-Western Nigeria. The Iseyin people of Oyo State are central to the production of aso-oke. These groups use hand woven fabrics as dress items ranging from everyday use (work cloths), cover cloth and commemoration of traditional events, such as traditional wedding, coronation, chieftaincy, age passage, burial of the aged among others, and also for religious and ritual purposes.

1. 1. This material content is developed to serve as a GUIDE for students to conduct academic research work
2. 2. As a source for additional understanding of the subject.
3. 3. As a source for ideas for your own research work (if properly referenced).
4. 4. For PROPER paraphrasing (see your university definition of plagiarism and acceptable paraphrase)
5. 5. Direct citing (if referenced properly)
Thank you so much for your respect to the authors copyright.