Frequently asked questions

Craft Encyclopedia is a comprehensive, authoritative online resource dedicated to documenting and preserving the rich and diverse world of crafts from around the world. It serves as a digital repository that captures the essence of traditional and contemporary craftsmanship, providing detailed information on various techniques, materials, tools, cultural significance and the artisans behind these creations. Whether you are a scholar, a craft enthusiast, or a curious student, the Craft Encyclopedia offers an in-depth look at the craftsmanship that shapes our cultural heritage.

The Craft Encyclopedia currently includes detailed information on crafts from two key regions of the World Crafts Council AISBL: the Asia Pacific Region and the Latin America Region. These regions have been extensively documented to reflect the rich and diverse cultural heritage and craftsmanship they embody.

However, the Craft Encyclopedia is an ongoing project and there are plans to expand its coverage to include the three remaining regions of the World Crafts Council AISBL: North America, Europe and Africa. Once these regions are added, the Encyclopedia will offer a truly global perspective on the world’s crafts, providing a comprehensive resource spanning all five regions of the AISBL World Crafts Council. This will allow users to explore the full spectrum of global craftsmanship, from traditional practices to contemporary innovations, across different cultures and regions.

Craft Encyclopedia is a valuable tool for individuals, institutions and organizations alike. For people, it offers a gateway to explore and understand the intricate world of craftsmanship, allowing them to appreciate the skill and artistry involved. Academics and researchers can use it as a credible reference for academic work or personal study. Institutions and organizations, particularly those in the cultural, educational and creative sectors, can leverage the encyclopedia as a resource for curriculum development, exhibitions and crafts preservation initiatives. The platform encourages collaboration, education and promotion of craftsmanship globally, ensuring these traditions are kept alive and accessible for future generations.

If you would like to contribute to the Craft Encyclopedia by adding new crafts, the process is designed to be user-friendly and inclusive. Contributors can submit detailed information about a craft, including its history, techniques and meaning, through an easy-to-navigate submission portal on the website. Each submission will be reviewed by a panel of experts to ensure accuracy and relevance before being added to the encyclopedia. This collaborative approach allows for continued expansion of the database, ensuring that the Craft Encyclopedia remains a dynamic and ever-evolving resource that reflects the diversity and richness of global crafts.

The Craft Encyclopedia presents a wide range of crafts, including traditional, contemporary and indigenous crafts from various cultures in the Asia Pacific and Latin American regions. Categories include textiles, ceramics, metalwork, woodworking, jewelry, basket weaving and more. Each entry provides detailed information about the history, techniques, materials and cultural meaning behind the craft.

Craft Encyclopedia is a collaborative effort involving contributions from scholars, researchers, artisans, and craft experts from around the world. It also receives contributions from national entities of the World Crafts Council AISBL, cultural organizations and academic institutions. This collaborative approach ensures that information is accurate, up-to-date and reflects the diverse perspectives of those involved in the craft sector.

The Craft Encyclopedia is maintained by a dedicated team of editors and researchers who regularly update the content to ensure its accuracy and relevance. New entries are continually added as more crafts are documented, and existing entries are revised to reflect any changes or new developments in the craft sector. Users can also suggest updates or new posts through a submission process.

Yes, the information provided in Craft Encyclopedia is freely available for educational and research purposes. Educators, students and researchers are encouraged to use the content to learn about and promote the rich cultural heritage of crafts. However, proper citation of Craft Encyclopedia as a source is required when using the information in academic or public presentations.

There are several ways to participate in Craft Encyclopedia. People can contribute by submitting new craft entries, providing updates to existing entries, or sharing their knowledge through articles or research papers. Institutions and organizations can collaborate by providing resources, expertise or funding to support the continued development of the Encyclopedia. If you are interested in contributing, you can contact the editorial team through the.ite website.