Revitalization of traditional hand weaving in the Republic of Croatia

Abstract

Almost every settlement in the Republic of Croatia has its own characteristics of clothing and textile items. Specific features achieved by hand weaving and embroidery when making fabric from natural materials and fibers grown in own households are noticeable. In the eighties of the 20th century, a decision was made to take all possible measures to preserve the priceless heritage (textile handicrafts) of skilled hands from oblivion. Knowing traditional weaving techniques, available textile materials, modern requirements and way of reasoning, the need to repair original (old) handlooms, but also to make modified handlooms, proved necessary. The specifics of hand weaving are continuously studied and determined in every environment in which they try to maintain their expression. During the nineties - during the Homeland War in the Republic of Croatia, hand weaving workshops were organized with women who were under constant tension near the front (Sunja, Dubrovnik...). Cooperation with the International Federation of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent has been developed, and at several locations in the free territory of the Republic of Croatia in refugee camps, activities are organized to capture the attention of refugees through traditional hand weaving activities. According to possibilities, cooperation has been established to date with associations whose members use our handlooms, they respect expert advice. It is especially gratifying to know that the need to preserve tradition was also recognized in schools, and many student cooperatives were founded. A process has been launched that needs to be developed, supported and directed with love for the truly original, without thinking about profit.