Heritage Craft Workshop (Drop in) Crepe Paper Flowers and Motanka Dolls

Paper Art – Making Crepe Paper Flowers
It’s more magic than craft when a simple piece of paper transforms into a beautifully realistic flower in your hands.
This art form originated in ancient China and spread around the world. In the last century, paper flowers were popular across Eastern Europe – used to decorate homes, church altars, and religious icons. In Ukraine, they were an important part of girls’ wreaths and ritual decorations.
Today, this beautiful tradition is disappearing, though it remains a vital part of humanity’s intangible heritage.
At this drop-in workshop, visitors will be able to make an exotic orchid using simple but sophisticated techniques, along with a bit of patience and imagination.

Motanka Dolls – Fabric or Yarn Dolls
Motanka dolls are among the most ancient folk toys, symbolising female wisdom and serving as family amulets.
Their name comes from the Ukrainian word for “winding” – and their construction involves tying and wrapping pieces of fabric or yarn into the shape of a woman or child.
They’ve been around for over 5,000 years, common among communities skilled in spinning, including Ukraine.
Every knot and colour held symbolic meaning, allowing the craftswoman to pass on her wishes through the doll’s form.
Originally crafted to depict women or children, today’s makers often create joyful and imaginative characters. At this drop-in session, we invite visitors to make a bright and cheerful fairy figure.