Authentic Straw Work Still In The Making

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – It is a decades long, uniquely Bahamian craft, straw work.

Engrid Bodie, owner of Engrid’s Straw Bags, says when she moved to New Providence at the age of eight, she quickly picked up the life-long skill, thanks to her aunt.

About two months ago, Bodie says she lost her job. That’s when she tapped back into her skill. She explains how she creates her beautiful pieces. The design comes as easy as putting together an outfit for the bag maker.

Bodie is also advocating for the craft to be taught in schools, emphasising these Bahamian crafts are the types of things needed in the straw market and will be needed in the years to come. She offered advice to the younger Bahamian generation, encouraging them to pick up the craft themselves.

As timeless as the skill of the craft, the bags themselves are also great investment pieces as they last for years.