11 September 2023
5 traditional crafts to savour in Singapore
There is no better way to explore Singapore’s melting pot of cultures than through its busy craft scene...
There is no better way to explore Singapore’s melting pot of cultures than through its busy craft scene...
Nyonya kebaya is the traditional garb of Peranakan women (Shutterstock)
The sarong kebaya is the traditional garb of Peranakan women and comes in a two-piece ensemble: a long skirt wrapped around the waist (sarong) and a long-sleeved blouse (kebaya). It combines Indonesian, Arabic and Chinese elements, which is fitting given Singapore’s cultural history. Shophouse Rumah Kim Choo is home to one of the city’s last remaining kebaya designers, where you’ll be able to commission a bespoke piece all of your own.
Make your own beaded shoes in Singapore (Rumah Bebe)
Peranakan beadwork often depicts animals, myths and flowers. Such is the precision required, it was said to be the ultimate test of a girl’s patience and attention to detail – qualities matchmakers once cherished in arranging marriages. You won’t find great Peranakan beadwork just anywhere, and prices differ based on the type of bead and intricacy of design. Try making your own beaded shoes at Rumah Bebe.
Wooden effigies often depict historical figures (Edmund Lau)
Wooden effigies are used by Taoists and Buddhists in religious worship, often depicting deities and historical figures. The number of workshops that produce and repair these statues has sadly dwindled; Say Tian Hng, which opened in 1896, is now the last Taoist effigy-making shop in Singapore. Here, trained docents lead a tour to introduce the stories of these deities and the ancient craft of effigy making.
Traditional lanterns made by hand is a niche trade (Alamy Stock Photo)
Making traditional Chinese lanterns by hand is a niche trade, split into two categories: Teochew and Fuzhou lanterns. Both comprise a bamboo frame and oil-coated silk paper, but the difference lies in their frame-weaving methods: the former uses a criss-cross pattern for its splints, while the latter places them in parallel.
Chinese seals require a high degree of skill (Alamy Stock Photo)
The art of seal engraving originated during China’s Han Dynasty, when seals were utilised for signatures or as signs of authority, and went on to be used across much of Asia. It may seem simple but this art form requires a high degree of skill; every mark counts on such a tiny surface area. While not many people use seals these days, they are often bought as personalised keepsakes.
Singapore’s trading history soon led to its adoption of the Javanese dyeing technique of batik – using dye-resistant wax to create patterns and shapes. Wellie Batik remains one of the best-loved shops in town for handcrafted shirts, dresses, and even placemats.
While a cheongsam (fitted silk dress) may look simple, it requires a high level of skill to create the right kind of symmetry. For a fresh take on the style, drop by Studio HHFZ in the Waterloo Centre, which gives them a modern twist.
The blue-and-white style of porcelain arrived in Singapore during the mass migration of Chinese people in the 19th century. Find plenty at Supermama, whose Singapore Icons collection is very popular.
Singapore’s national flower is an orchid hybrid called Vanda Miss Joaquim, which is why you’ll see orchids everywhere here. Jeweller RISIS even has brooches made from the real flowers.
A ketupat typically refers to a pouch that has been weaved from coconut leaves for cooking rice. However, this same skill is also used to make ribbons that decorate Malay homes during the festive season. Pick up your own from the 19th-century shophouses-turned-boutiques in Kampong Glam.
Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.