Born in Mangrove Bush, Long Island, Bahamas, Barbara Knowles Jesubatham had an interest in art and craft from an early age. As her parents were both straw craft people, she developed an interest in the work by simply watching and helping with the plaiting of straw. During later years in Eleuthera and Nassau she mastered the art of designing and sewing straw products, which are proudly used by her customers throughout The Bahamas and abroad.
This book is an expression of Barbara’s love and passion for the straw craft industry. It is aimed at preserving this Bahamian cultural tradition, by educating present and future generations. Apart from providing step-by-step instructions for making several exciting straw bags, this book also provides background on this industry by describing the sources of straw and the methods of cutting and curing the Silver Top Palm leaves.

Barbara's book Bahamian Straw Craft - A Guide to Making Native Straw Bags, are available at her home, Chevy's accessories, Phil's Sewing machine center, The Craft Cottage, Doongalik and The Bahamas National Art Gallery.