The artisan traditions of Novara di Sicilia represent a valuable cultural heritage that has long encompassed all of the principal skilled trades, including tailoring, shoemaking, masonry, stone carving and carpentry. Together, these crafts have contributed significantly to the area’s economic and cultural development. The presence of vast woodlands made timber an essential resource, giving rise to a thriving woodworking tradition.
The journey from tree to finished object involves a complex production process that begins in the forest and ends in the artisan’s workshop. It starts with the selection of trees according to species, age and intended use. Felling usually occurs in winter, when the wood contains less moisture. The trunks are then stripped, sawn and roughly squared.
One of the most important states is seasoning, during which the timber gradually loses its moisture. This prevents warping and guarantees greater stability. In the workshop, carpenters use tools to measure, cut, shape and assemble the material. At the centre of this work is the workbench, an essential aid for ensuring accuracy and stability. Once the structure of the object has been made, the woodcarver takes over, using chisels and precision tools to create decorative motifs and ornamental details. Finally, the finished piece is enhanced with waxes, tints and varnishes that highlight its beauty and help preserve it over time.