Overview of producing areas Shuro broom

Overview

Shuro (the windmill palm tree), a plant of the Arecaceae family with a tropical feel, once thrived and was cultivated in the mountains of the region called Nokamidani. The dark brown fiber encasing the trunk of the tree is characterized by toughness, resistance to decay, elasticity, and durability, leading to its use in daily goods such as ropes, nets, brushes, and tawashi (scouring brushes). Another item is the Shuro broom. Made of natural fibers, this broom features a soft sweeping feel.

Scenes of work

Raw material

Before 1945, Shuro trees covered the mountainous area and were managed by lumber dealers. Today, very few local suppliers are able to process the Shuro tree and most of the raw material is imported from China.

Making a ball (bundle of Shuro)

A husk broom made with the whole husk of the Shuro. First, the bark is rolled to create a Shuro bundle called a ball. The stiffness is changed according to the type of broom and the position of the balls, which are then fixed with copper wire or thread.

Attaching the handle and piercing the balls

The handle is attached to the main ball; the main ball and then the other balls are pierced with bamboo skewers. The number of balls can be 5, 7, 9, or 11, depending on the type of broom and its use. 11-ball brooms are luxury items.