Wooden craft items in Guyana are more than decorative pieces; they are treasures of culture, identity, and skill, reflecting the creativity and heritage of Indigenous communities and other peoples including those of African descent. From intricately carved utensils and ornaments to furniture and keepsakes, these crafts carry stories that connect generations and inspire pride.
As we continue to observe Amerindian Heritage Month this September, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) is proud to highlight the GCP 31:2010 – Code of Practice for Manufacture of Wooden Craft Items, a CARICOM Regional Standard adopted to preserve the traditional craft industry, support tourism, and enhance the livelihood of artisans.
This Code of Practice sets the minimum requirements for the manufacture of wooden craft items, focusing on performance rather than rigid prescriptions. It ensures that each piece, whether carved, painted, or polished, reflects durability, cultural authenticity, and safety. Wooden crafts, often made by hand, are celebrated for their uniqueness, but the standard also recognises that artisans may use tools and technology to improve efficiency without compromising craftsmanship.
Like standards, materials matter, and this standard requires the use of mature, well-dried, and defect-free wood, whether kiln, solar, or air-dried, to ensure the strength and longevity of craft pieces. Adhesives should be non-toxic, food-safe for items like bowls and utensils, and flexible enough to accommodate natural wood movement. Finishes such as paints, varnishes, and lacquers must be approved as safe, while hardware must be corrosion-resistant and properly fitted. Importantly, for toys and children products, always use non-toxic paints to protect health.
The GCP 31 also emphasises safety and environmental responsibility. Craftspersons are required to follow local health and safety regulations, ensuring proper ventilation in workspaces, wearing of protective gear, and the storage of materials responsibly. Reclaimed wood is prohibited for food usage unless its history is fully known. To further protect the environment, artisans are encouraged to implement eco-friendly practices such as waste reduction or tree planting.
Beyond materials and safety, the Code celebrates the art of craftsmanship. Finished work should show technical fluency, consistency, and attention to detail. All surfaces must be smooth, well-sanded, and free from hazards, while decorations should enhance the design and function of the piece. Whether it’s a carved stool, a polished bowl, or a painted toy, every item must meet high standards of workmanship.
Labels and packaging are equally important. Items must be clearly labelled with the manufacturer’s name and address, type of material, finish, and care instructions, ensuring consumers can make informed choices while artisans showcase their identity and pride.
By conforming to this standard, artisans and manufacturers ensure their wooden craft items are not only beautiful but also durable, safe, and export-ready, helping to grow the tourism sector and strengthen Guyana’s cultural economy.
This September, as we celebrate Amerindian Heritage Month under the theme “Igniting Unity, Celebrating Progress and Advancing Our Culture”, GNBS encourages artisans across the country to embrace the requirements of GCP 31:2010. Let standards help preserve local artistry while giving consumers confidence in the quality of the items they purchase.
After all, wooden crafts are not just products, they are timeless pieces of culture, passed from the skilled hands of artisans to homes, markets, and generations to come.
19
Sep
