Craft Encyclopedia
Moroccan Crafts
Learn what makes each craft authentic, how to spot quality, and what a fair price looks like — before you step into the souk.
Thuya Wood Box
WoodworkEssaouira
Decorative boxes carved from thuya wood burl, featuring natural grain patterns and often inlaid with other woods, mother-of-pearl, or brass wire.
Thuya Wood Chess Set
WoodworkEssaouira
Hand-turned chess sets with board and pieces in thuya and lemon wood. The contrasting light and dark woods create a striking board.
Cedar Carved Panel
WoodworkFes, Azrou
Aromatic Atlas cedar panels with deeply carved geometric and arabesque patterns. Used architecturally in traditional riads and mosques.
Painted Wooden Door / Panel
WoodworkFes, Marrakech, Chefchaouen
Reclaimed or newly made wooden doors and panels hand-painted with traditional Moroccan geometric and floral motifs.
Wicker / Rattan Furniture
WoodworkSale, Kenitra
Handwoven chairs, tables, and garden furniture made from wicker, rattan, or palm frond. Lightweight and distinctive.
Turned Wooden Bowl
WoodworkEssaouira, Azrou
Bowls hand-turned from thuya burl, olive wood, or walnut on traditional lathes. Showcases natural grain patterns. Used decoratively or for serving.
Moucharabieh Screen Panel
WoodworkFes, Marrakech
Intricately assembled wooden lattice screens made from small turned wooden dowels fitted together without nails or glue. Traditional privacy screens.
Olive Wood Kitchen Utensils
WoodworkEssaouira, Azrou, various
Hand-carved cooking spoons, spatulas, salad servers, and cutting boards made from Moroccan olive wood. Prized for the wood's tight grain and natural beauty.
Painted Wooden Furniture (Small)
WoodworkMarrakech, Chefchaouen
Small colorful painted wooden tables, stools, shelves, and cabinets in traditional Moroccan patterns. Popular riad decor and tourist purchases.