Green Striped Baby Bilum (Survivor-Made)

Survivor-Made Bilums

This bilums was handwoven by a survivor accessing Femili PNG's case management services. By purchasing bilums directly from these clients, we support them to become financially independent so that they can escape the cycle of violence, and build meaningful and sustainable lives.

The Striped Baby Bilum

Bilum weaving has been passed down to Papua New Guinean women from their mothers and grandmothers across generations. The word "bilum" in Tok Pisin means "womb". It symbolises the beginning of life, and many mothers use their bilums to carry and protect their babies.

The baby bilum is typically woven out of a soft material into a large, circular shape. The handles are usually left open and tied together with a knot, so the mother can adjust the length of the handles depending on the weight of the baby. Today, baby bilums are also used to carry various other heavy loads (e.g., fruit and vegetables).

Stripes are one of the simplest yet most popular bilum designs, often signifying unity and the coming together of different paths. The lines can represent rivers, roads, or life’s journey, illustrating how every individual path is part of a greater whole.

Our Cause

Since opening in 2014, Femili PNG has provided over 7,000 survivors of family and sexual violence with access to safe accommodation, law and justice interventions, medical assistance, and more. All bilum sales go directly towards supporting Femili PNG's life-changing services.

Product Details

Made in: Goroka (Eastern Highlands)
Source: Survivor-made
Material: Cotton
Design: Striped baby bilum
Features: Zipper
Size: 36cm (W) x 20cm (H)