Carpets in Algeria are primarily woven by women. The various intricate designs often indicate the region in which the carpet was made. Carpets represent an important part of Algerian culture and are often the central piece of a home. Weavers typically use wool or goat hair to produce carpets. Though most carpets are woven, knotting is also a common technique used. Once a year, weavers from around Algeria meet in the town of Ghardaia for a carpet festival. Artisans exhibit their work and enter into competitions for recognition.
Pottery is another staple in Algeria's craft history. Much like carpet weaving, styles of pottery differ greatly from region to region. Different colors and adornments represent different areas of the country. Pottery-making techniques, however, are similar throughout the country and date back to Roman times. Arguably the most well-known pottery crafts are those made by the women in the Kabylia and Aures mountain regions of Algeria. Pottery objects in Algeria are often made by families, then shared with neighbors as a sign of good will.
For many, one appeal of Algerian crafts is the numerous markets found in city centers, known as casbahs, which sell arts and crafts along with other goods. These markets are popular tourist destinations as crafts such as carpets, baskets and pottery can often be found cheaper here than in stores or through international traders. The timelessness of Algerian city markets often adds a particular charm for some tourists, though others may find market traders and sellers to be a bit too aggressive.
According to Algeria.com, the crafts industry employed approximately 200,000 people in 2006, in a country historically plagued by high unemployment rates. The crafts industry represents a significant portion of Algeria's overall economy. The country's government has in recent years recognized the great potential for reducing unemployment and boosting trade through crafts, as Algerian goods such as carpets and pottery have long been popular products on the international market.