How were basketry materials used to make clothing in Oceania and Madagascar?

In Oceania and Madagascar, basketry techniques—particularly supple diagonal plaiting—have been historically utilized to create various forms of clothing and protective gear.1

Applications in Oceania

In Oceania, basketry is a highly developed craft used for both utilitarian and ceremonial purposes. Specific applications include:2
* Apparel: Basketry is commonly used to create skirts and loincloths. In western Polynesia, finely woven mats have also served as traditional apparel.13
* Protective Gear: Thick, strong basketry has been fashioned into helmets for head protection. Additionally, inhabitants of the Gilbert Islands in Micronesia historically crafted armor from coconut palm fiber to protect against weapons made of shark teeth.1
* Ceremonial Items: Basketry techniques are used to create items that signify prestige, such as finely twined cloaks in New Zealand and masks in New Guinea.2

Applications in Madagascar

In Madagascar, the use of basketry extends to the creation of dresses, which are made using supple diagonal plaiting techniques. Beyond clothing, the region is also noted for its production of nested boxes, which are crafted in graduated series to fit snugly within one another.1