Abstract:
This research work focused on the production of interior decoration items with Thaumatococcus daniellii using plain weave method of weaving. An experimental design was used in order to achieve the aim and objectives of the research.
Thaumatococcus daniellii (eniran) has been a long-established decorative material significantly employed for interior decoration in developed society, but yet to be fully appreciated in Nigeria; it is majorly known for its natural source of thaumatin, an intensely sweet protein which is of interest in the development of sweeteners. Thaumatococcus daniellii also known as sweet prayer plant is the most important group of forest species after timber especially in West-Eastern part of Nigeria southwest and it has grossly been used for utilities and house utensils by the people of Ogotun Ekiti and its environs for one purpose or another, for the making of household art decorations.
The production of Thaumatococcus daniellii - made items suitable for window blinds, table
mats, flower vase and foot mats with less cost and maintenance reduced financial expenditures to some extent as far as contemporary home furnishing is concerned.
This study revealed that weaving interior decoration items using Thauamatococcus daniellii: popularly known as eniran in the Ekiti local dialect can be a source of income to those practicing it. African indigenous decorative items are versed and can be mass produced to meet international standards if the crafts are properly packaged during production and could attract more patronage for the craft items in question, if some other related materials are combined. The Plain weave method of weaving with different styles were explored, such that when the processed stalks were dipped into dyes such as jelu, olorin, olosun and mokore and then woven it resulted into beautifully aesthetic interior decoration items. The results of the study further revealed that the constraints encountered in the production and utilization of the items include non-availability of appropriate tools for processing Thaumatococcus danielli materials into finished product and scarcity of raw materials in some area that engaged in the production of Thaumatococcus daniellii decorative and utility items. It is therefore recommended that the modern technology for smothering, and shaping Thaumatococcus daniellii materials used for decorative items be made accessible to increase availability of the product for interested users.
