Tehran (ISNA) – June 10 marks World Handicrafts Day, an occasion commemorating attractive objects made by hardworking men and women in all countries.

There are over three million people who are involved in the making of creative works, known as handicrafts.

Last year, Iran’s handicrafts industry produced $281 million in revenue that served a fundamental role in the country’s non-oil exports.

Today, many countries in the world value handicrafts.

After the end of World War II, the handicrafts of countries with ancient civilizations drew the attention of developed countries.

The first international conference of handicrafts was held on 10 July 1964 in New York City in the presence of governments’ officials, university professors, and craftspeople from over 40 countries.

There are many artisans in Iran, especially in Shiraz City. More investment should be made in order to improve the industry of handicrafts in Iran which will solve many economic difficulties in the country as well.

The major traditional arts in Iran include carpet weaving, vitreous enamel, toreutics, Khatam art (Persian technique of inlaying), interior decoration with mirrors, kilim (Persian rug) weaving, ceramic tile art, woodturning, and ornament making.