How Spoons Are Made
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Once the wood is collected, then begins the process of actually making the spoon. We first draw the proper shape and size on the piece of wood and then use machetes to carve out the basic outline. Afterwards, we begin with the wood chisels, files, and sandpaper to fine tune the details. In Petén, most of the Spoonmakers live in rural villages one or two hours away from the city. Many do not have electricity in their communities so power tools are not an option. |
The average spoon takes half a day to a full day to make depending on who's making it and the level of experience and expertise. For almost all of the spoon makers, it becomes a family affair with everyone chipping in. Often the father will start out with the machete, and his wife, older children or extended family members will then work with the chisels and files to get it in rough shape. Children also participate, mostly in sanding it down. Finally, when the spoon is shaped and finished, it is polished with wax or oil and brought to the meeting.
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The groups are always trying to perfect and develop new styles and designs for their products. Some of the most recent designs include the pancake flipper, measuring spoon set, bowls, and ladles with a heart or duck in the handle.
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