Description
The tradition of doll making can be found in many different parts of the world. Throughout history people have been making dolls out of whatever materials they could find -- wood, wool, straw, textiles, etc. In Slavic culture, we have our own doll making traditions, and of all the dolls that are part of my culture, the ones I enjoy making the most are rag dolls.
Here in Latvia, as in other Slavic areas, rag dolls have been made for hundreds of years. They are traditionally made out of old clothes, linen, wool, cotton and thread. Dolls were made for children to play with or to decorate the house, but we also believe that they can have additional properties - to help fulfill a wish, to protect her owner from negative energy, to attract positive energy, and to bring good luck.
In this Workshop I will teach you the tradition of making the spring happiness bird, which is one of our traditional Slavic dolls. We will use supplies from home to craft your bird. In Latvia, birds are a symbol of luck and happiness, and you can often find the bird symbol used in ornaments, as clothing adornments, painted on household items, or even on pies and bread. A happiness bird doll is a great spring decoration for your house, and in Latvia we believe that it can help bring you protection, freedom, good luck and energy. They are often given as presents for someone that you care about.
Please note: This Workshop is recommended to ages 8+ as it requires a certain level of dexterity and the ability to make a knot. Younger Learners will benefit from a parents helping hands.