Traditional Croatian Textiles

As a first generation American of Croatian descent, the souvenirs I bring back from Croatia hold a special significance that goes beyond mementos of my travels. They are tangible connections to my roots. My childhood home was filled with Croatian art and cultural artifacts such as my mother’s tablecloths stitched in traditional Croatian patterns and my father’s cap from the Lika region from which his ancestors hail. From woven wool table runners to lace pillow covers, I enjoy showcasing my culture in my home.

When I travel to Croatia, I enjoy selecting handmade one-of-a-kind home accessories and textiles reflecting the country’s culture and traditions inspired by the artistry and beauty of Croatian embroidery (Vez) and lacemaking (Cipka) traditions.

Silk embroidery (poprsnica) and woven textile patterns from the Konavle region of Croatia feature symmetric and geometric patterns primarily in red, black, and dark green with yellow/golden borders stitched in silk thread. The production and rearing of silkworms in the Konavle region dates back to the 11^th century. To purchase truly unique gifts of Konavle embroidery and woven textiles visit Kokula Art and Craft Shop, Đorđićeva 6, Dubrovnik, Croatia or AR Atelier 20215, Gruda, Croatia founded by artist Antonia Ruskovic Radonic a native of Konavle. 

Croatian lacemaking, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is concentrated on the Dalmatian islands of Hvar and Pag and the town of Lepoglava in Northeastern Croatia. Hvar lace, made with threads of the agave leaf has been made in a Benedictine monastery since finding its way to the island by seafarers from Tenerife Spain in the 19^th century. To purchase unique gifts inspired by traditional Croatian lace making, visit Takemehome for homewares featuring Croatian lace and other unique handmade products Tomićeva 4, Zagreb or Chypka for streetwear with a unique Croatian lace flare, located in the Hotel Jagerhorn, Ilica 14, 10000, Zagreb or visit Sopar Collection the brainchild of two sisters from the island of Pag, for women’s fashion featuring handmade lace from Pag. Purchase online or by appointment +385919703065 at their showroom Šestinska cesta 19a, 10 000 Zagreb.

 

		Photo with permission from AR Atelier
Photo with permission from Chypka		Photo with permission from Etno Motiv

 

~ Melita Krstulovic Opara