Origin: In 16th century, the Spanish and Portuguese word coco, spelling "a grin", "a monkey face" gave birth to the word coconut. 

It is believed that the artisans from Vishwakarma community in Kerala introduced the world to this fine craft. These artisans indulged in sword making and carving and thus it is said that they crafted the coconut shell products. 

Alternatively, a report signals that this craft was a part of the Iraq caravan when the moved to India almost 900 years ago. 

In India, most of the places that embrace coconut in abundance also embrace the talent of making coconut husk craft. 

Goa, the most loved Indian tourist destination, is bound by three sides with land and one side with water. The climate here is mostly hot and humid making it the ideal place for growing coconut palm. 

The tale of how coconut craft mushroomed in Goa remains hidden in the depth of Goa’s ocean. Historically, coconut farmers would create household items from coconut shells. These farmers would neatly make a hole at the shell top and creatively employ the shell, which as a waste product. 

Present Day: In the last few decades, coconut shell items has gained popularity on the Indian handicraft map. Marcel and the other localities in Goa encourage coconut craft. Women from villages enrol in institutes that develop their coconut craft skills. These institutes teach the womenfolk of Goa the skills required to make multiple craft items from coconut shell. Soap stand, Mask, Plant Pots, Light Holders Mobile stand, Pen stand, Lamp, Mugs, Lamp stand, Ganesh statue etc are some of the coconut craft items. 

Procedure: The tools and raw materials required for crafting coconut shell handicraft items are Coconut Shell, Hacksaw Blade, Emery Sheet, Buffing Machine, Files such as flat file, rounded file, circular file, triangular file, Chisels, Hammer, Quick Adhesive, Wood Polish, and Sleek Glossy Top Coat.  

Procedure: The process of coconut crafts making can be classified in the following categories: sketching, cutting, sanding, and buffing. In the bygone era, craftsmen relied on hand tools to carve, cut, and finish the edges.  However, in the current scenario, machines are used to speed up the process. 

Bring Home Coconut Craft of Goa: The entire land of Goa is home to stunning coconut craft items. You can pick up souvenirs from the Goa flea market.  You can also visit the institutes where artisans craft these items.