Learn the textile arts of embroidery and knitting
Estonia’s vibrant folk costumes, especially the skirts women wear during the Song and Dance Celebration, demonstrate the country’s colorful cultural heritage. These skirts showcase the skill and creativity of Estonian craftspeople who have passed down their skills for generations.
Estonian textile arts — whether it’s detailed embroidery, complex knitting patterns, or weaving — continue to thrive today. If you’re interested in learning basic skills for working with fabric or hope to dive deeper into your favorite craft, there are various workshops to explore.
Where to let your creativity loose?
1. Muhu Island
Muhu Island is home to elaborate floral embroidery that adorns shoes, tablecloths, and blouses. Männiku Handicraft Workshop offers you the chance to try your hand at embroidery using Muhu Island’s iconic folk-art designs.
2. Parnu
The Tõstamaa Craft Center in Pärnu County offers a roosimine (inlay knitting) workshop. Roosimine, a traditional Estonian knitting technique, involves creating vibrant geometric patterns typically used to decorate gloves and stockings. At the Craft Center, you can learn this centuries-old technique and craft beautiful, knitted items while gaining a deeper appreciation for Estonian textile heritage.
3. Kihnu Island
Kihnu Island women are known for their stunning black-and-white knitted gloves and colorful handwoven wool skirts, symbolizing their unique cultural identity. Kihnu Museum is a must-visit for learning more about the island’s textile arts. You can participate in hands-on workshops and create your own piece.
4. Setomaa
Seto Lace Days in Setomaa is a fantastic opportunity to attend an event dedicated to textile arts. Held annually, this event celebrates the intricate art of Seto lacemaking. Attendees can enjoy watching local lacemakers in action and join workshops to try it for themselves. While there, you can visit the Obinitsa Museum and see what it feels like to don the regional costume.
5. Viljandi Craft Camp
The University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy’s department of Estonian Native Crafts has held the weeklong Craft Camp since 2014. The camp was created to introduce Estonian handicrafts to an international audience by providing an overview of Estonia’s traditional handicraft techniques and learning about how they are used in modern society.
6. Handicraft shops
Handicraft shops in Estonia offer a wide range of traditional and contemporary handmade goods. You’ll find them in almost every corner of the country — seek one out during your travels and take home an authentic souvenir.
7. Heimtali
Housed in an old schoolhouse, the Heimtali Museum’s star exhibit is its collection of national textiles. The museum was founded by Anu Rand, one of Estonia’s most well-known contemporary textile artists. Call ahead to request an English-speaking guide, and you’ll be rewarded with a closer look at the skill needed to make Estonia’s stunning traditional garments and home goods.
