The History and Craft of Traditional Broom Making
- thebms
- May 2
- 5 min read
Broom making is an ancient craft, steeped in history and tradition. From its origins in early societies to its role in modern homes, brooms have been essential tools for both cleanliness and folklore. This blog post explores the fascinating history of broom making, the materials used, techniques involved, and even a look into sustainable practices like using broomcorn.
The Rise and fall of Broom Making
Broom making has evolved significantly over the centuries. In ancient times, brooms were crafted from various natural materials such as twigs, straw, and reeds. The earliest brooms were likely just bundles of these materials, used to sweep away dirt and debris.
The most recognized type of broom today, the traditional corn broom, was prevalent in rural America until the 1970's. Its distinct shape and functionality made it a staple in every household. Broom makers learned to expertly bind and twist these materials, creating robust tools designed for daily use. Over time, the craft became even more refined and even automated in US factories, but the industry ultimately succumbed to synthetics, foreign competition and the introduction of the vacuum. This also decimated the farming industry that grew the broomcorn crop. Farmers were forced to switch to a more profitable crop and since then, broomcorn is scarcely found growing in the US. Most is grown by hobbyists.
Broom making is a skill that has been passed down through generations, often in family workshops or as part of community traditions. Broom making not only provides practical tools but also serves as a creative outlet for artisans who enjoy showcasing their craftsmanship.
Materials Used in Broom Making
The primary materials utilized in the craft of broom making is broomcorn, which is a variety of sorghum, and other natural fibers. Broomcorn has long, stiff strands that make it ideal for creating durable brooms.
In addition to broomcorn, other natural materials like Rattan, bamboo, yucca, horsehair, tampico, and even synthetic fibers are sometimes combined for added strength and flexibility. The choice of materials can affect the broom’s functionality. For instance, a broom made primarily of soft material such as tampico is excellent for sweeping fine dust, while one made of Rattan is better for tackling larger debris in wet areas. Broomcorn is the main product in most traditional sweeper brooms today. One place to find broomcorn in it's natural form or hand-dyed for artistic appeal is Meckley Brooms LLC.
Broom makers also pay careful attention to the handles, which can be made from various woods like pine or ash. The wood is chosen not only for its strength but also for its aesthetic appeal.
The art of selecting the right materials is fundamental in ensuring the broom's efficacy. Each component of the broom, from the bristles to the handle, contributes to its overall performance.
Does broom corn come back every year?
Broomcorn is a unique plant in that it is an annual and sometimes bi-annual crop depending on its growing location. It needs to be planted each spring to grow and be harvested by the end of summer or early fall. The process involves sowing seeds, caring for the plants, and ensuring that they are ready for harvesting.
To succeed in broomcorn farming, growers must pay attention to their climate and soil conditions. While broomcorn can adapt to various environments, it typically thrives in warm weather and well-drained soil. Farmers often practice crop rotation to keep the soil healthy and nutrient-rich. Mexico is the world supplier of broomcorn.
Once harvested, broomcorn can be processed for broom making, involving drying and preparing the stalks. One method for drying and also preventing birds from eating the seeds is called "tabling". This is the process of bending broomcorn over onto the rows aside of it, to create the look of a table. Efficient farming and processing techniques can make broomcorn a sustainable resource for broom makers, allowing the craft to thrive year after year.
Harvesting the broomcorn plant is labor intensive. All done by hand, the plant is cut, dried, and then raked to remove all the seeds if the product is going into broom making production. Often the plant is measured to specific lengths and sold in bales that are sent all over the world. These bales weigh on average, 100-125 lbs. This prepared product is then ready to be used in broom making.
Traditional Techniques of Broom Making
The techniques of broom making can vary significantly depending on regional traditions and personal preferences. However, the basic process typically involves a few key steps:
Gathering Materials: The first step is to collect high-quality broomcorn and any other materials needed.
Preparation: The broomcorn is prepared by soaking it in water, which makes it pliable and easier to work with if using a wire bound process.
Binding: Once softened, the broomcorn is bound around the handle, carefully arranged to create a uniform shape. Broom makers often use a specific binding technique to ensure durability.
Final Touches: After binding, the broom is often stitched flat and trimmed to the desired length and shape. Final quality checks are made to ensure that the broom is sturdy and functional.
Mastering these techniques requires patience and practice. Each artisan may have their unique methods or embellishments that reflect their style.
Modern Revival and Sustainability in Broom Making
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the craft of broom making. Many people are seeking out handcrafted goods for their unique qualities and environmental benefits. Brooms made using traditional techniques are often more durable than mass-produced ones.
Moreover, broom making has moved towards sustainable practices. Many artisans are now focusing on using locally sourced, natural materials. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also supports local economies. Workshops that teach individuals how to craft their own brooms have become popular, encouraging a return to traditional skills. Those interested can check out classes, such as this broom making workshop.
As people prioritize sustainability and craftsmanship, broom making has found its way back into modern culture, celebrating its past while paving the way for a sustainable future.
Embracing the Craft
Today, broom making is not just a practical craft; it also serves as a form of artistic expression and community engagement. Participating in workshops or supporting local broom makers can help preserve this age-old tradition.
By embracing the craft and its history, individuals can connect with a vital part of cultural heritage. Whether you need a broom for practical purposes or simply want to appreciate its craftsmanship, traditional brooms symbolize the art of making something with care.
In conclusion, broom making is a timeless craft that continues to adapt and thrive. Its history is rich, and its future looks bright as more people discover the joys of handmade brooms. So, next time you sweep your floor, think about the intricate art and traditions that have made it possible.
Want to learn more or ask a question regarding the craft of broom making
Meckley Brooms has a long tradition of broom making. The family has been making brooms since the late 1800's. Even today the family uses the same equipment handed down through 6 generations. While the Meckley's don't grow or harvest their own broomcorn, they do hand dye broomcorn into beautiful colors for their own brooms as well as DIY'ers and other broom makers around the country. In addition to broom making materials, you can also find broom making equipment. The website to visit is Meckleybrooms.com for all your broom making needs and questions.
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