ITI Trade

ITI Trade: Cane, Willow, and Bamboo Worker

Powered by NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training)

Course Overview

The ITI trade Cane, Willow, and Bamboo Worker is a skill-based vocational program focused on developing craftsmanship and technical skills in creating products made from cane, willow, and bamboo. It is a job-oriented trade, designed for those seeking employment in both government and private sectors. This trade also holds significant potential for self-employment, enabling artisans to start their own businesses and contribute to sustainable development.

The program is perfectly tailored to meet the industrial requirements of Indian industries as well as international markets, where eco-friendly and handcrafted products are in growing demand.

Course Objectives

  • To train students in traditional and modern techniques of cane, willow, and bamboo craft.
  • To develop hands-on skills for producing high-quality handcrafted products.
  • To promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices in handicrafts.
  • To enhance self-employment opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship.
  • To align skills with the needs of both domestic and international markets.

Skills You Will Learn

  • Identification and selection of suitable cane, willow, and bamboo materials.
  • Harvesting and seasoning techniques to ensure material longevity and durability.
  • Cutting, splitting, and sizing techniques for raw materials.
  • Designing and manufacturing a variety of products such as baskets, mats, furniture, decorative items, and utility products.
  • Use of traditional hand tools and modern equipment.
  • Treatment and preservation methods to prevent decay, pests, and deterioration.
  • Weaving, binding, bending, and joining techniques.
  • Surface finishing, polishing, and painting for aesthetic enhancement.
  • Quality control standards for local and export markets.
  • Marketing and pricing strategies for products.

Course Features

  • Comprehensive practical training under experienced instructors.
  • Emphasis on eco-friendly craftsmanship and sustainable material use.
  • Focus on modern design trends to appeal to global markets.
  • Introduction to CAD software for product design and prototyping (in some curricula).
  • Exposure to industrial safety standards and workplace hygiene.
  • Project work and on-the-job training (OJT) with local industries and artisan clusters.
  • Eligibility for National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) and potential to advance as a Craft Instructor.

Career Opportunities

After successful completion, candidates can find opportunities in:

  • Handicraft Industries (domestic and international markets)
  • Cottage industries
  • Handloom and handicraft cooperatives
  • Export houses
  • Furniture and interior decoration companies
  • Government Handicraft Development Corporations
  • Self-employment as entrepreneurs (setting up workshops and retail outlets)

Common job roles include:

  • Bamboo/Cane Artisan
  • Furniture Maker
  • Basket Weaver
  • Decorative Item Designer
  • Handicraft Export Entrepreneur
  • Craft Instructor (with additional qualification)

Course Duration

  • One Year (2 Semesters)
  • Followed by NCVT Certification after final assessment
Trades Summery

Semester-Wise Detailed Syllabus

Trade Name: Cane, Willow, and Bamboo Worker
Course Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Certification: NCVT

Semester I

1. Trade Orientation and Safety Practices

  • Introduction to the trade and its relevance in the handicraft and furniture industries
  • General safety rules and regulations
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) and their usage
  • Fire safety and first aid
  • Environmental awareness, waste management, and housekeeping practices
  • Health and hygiene at the workplace

2. Identification and Selection of Raw Materials

  • Different species of cane, willow, and bamboo
  • Identification of suitable raw materials for different products
  • Seasoning and preservation techniques to prevent fungal and insect attacks
  • Harvesting methods and quality standards

3. Tools and Equipment

  • Introduction to basic hand tools used in cane, willow, and bamboo work
  • Maintenance and sharpening of tools (knives, saws, chisels, drills, etc.)
  • Introduction to modern machines used for cutting, splitting, and processing bamboo and cane
  • Safety practices while handling tools and machines

4. Basic Processing Techniques

  • Methods of cutting, sizing, splitting, and slivering cane, willow, and bamboo
  • Softening and bending techniques using water treatment, blow lamps, and heating methods
  • Dyeing and coloring techniques (natural and chemical dyes)
  • Smoke treatment and chemical treatment for durability

5. Basic Weaving and Joining Techniques

  • Introduction to traditional and modern weaving patterns
  • Making simple products: mats, trays, baskets, and coasters
  • Different types of joints (lashing, pegging, and adhesive-based joining)
  • Use of nails, screws, and binding materials
  • Introduction to jigs and fixtures for uniformity

6. Practical Projects - Semester I

  • Making simple products such as baskets, trays, mats, and storage containers
  • Decorative wall hangings and small gift items
  • Quality control and finishing work: filing, polishing, varnishing, and painting
  • Maintenance and storage of finished products
  • Internal assessment and project evaluation
  • Semester I Examination

Semester II

1. Advanced Material Selection and Processing

  • Selection of appropriate materials for heavy-duty products
  • Advanced processing techniques for high-value products
  • Surface treatments for export-quality products
  • Use of eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices

2. Design and Prototyping

  • Basic drawing and design concepts
  • Freehand sketching of products
  • Introduction to CAD software for designing bamboo, cane, and willow products (optional but recommended)
  • Developing prototypes and models for approval
  • Scaling designs for mass production

3. Advanced Weaving and Construction Techniques

  • Complex weaving styles: hexagonal weave, diagonal weave, plaited weave, etc.
  • Construction of furniture: stools, chairs, tables, and shelving units
  • Making large-scale items: partitions, wall panels, and home décor items
  • Bending techniques for curved furniture components
  • Use of metal and other supporting structures in combination with bamboo and cane

4. Finishing and Quality Control

  • Advanced polishing and finishing techniques for high-gloss and matte effects
  • Application of varnishes, sealants, and lacquers
  • Inspection techniques to ensure structural strength and aesthetic quality
  • Packaging and storage for domestic and export markets
  • Branding and labeling

5. Entrepreneurship and Marketing Skills

  • Basics of costing and pricing
  • Marketing techniques for handicraft and eco-friendly products
  • Export policies and procedures for handicraft goods
  • Interaction with buyers and participation in exhibitions/fairs
  • Starting a small-scale industry or cooperative enterprise

6. Practical Projects - Semester II

  • Production of advanced items: furniture, interior décor panels, large gift items
  • Combination products with textile, metal, and glass
  • Innovative design projects: modern furniture, home décor products, and customized orders
  • Preparing products for exhibitions and trade fairs
  • Internal assessment, project work, and final evaluation
  • Semester II Examination

On-Job Training / Apprenticeship (Optional but Recommended)

  • Exposure to live projects in handicraft clusters, cooperatives, and MSMEs
  • Industrial visit to bamboo processing units and exhibitions
  • Practical exposure to export documentation and quality control for international markets

Career Path After Certification

  • Bamboo and Cane Product Maker
  • Furniture Craftsman
  • Basket and Mat Weaver
  • Handicraft Entrepreneur
  • Quality Controller
  • Trainer/Instructor (with further qualification)
  • Export House Artisan

Trade Type

Subscribe to Cane Willow and Bamboo Worker