April 07, 2009

Corn Husk Dolls.

In Slovakia, where I was born, there is a tradition to make so called "Corn Husk Dolls". Sold as souvenirs, these dolls, as the name implies, are made out of dried corn husks. They are also use in homes as decorations for different holidays, among those Easter. The handmade dolls are very delicate and often include significant details; some of them even carry small objects, such as baked bread (made out of real dough).
My dolls are more simple, still I like to display them on the shelves around the holidays.

14 comments:

Diane said...

They are so sweet! I had a couple when I was young - gotten at some souvenir place on a vacation... but they weren't nearly as nice as yours.

Claus said...

Interestingly enough, we also have dolls made out of dried corn husks. They also add seeds and dried flowers. What a coincidence, right?! Those made in Slovakia are beautiful!!

Michelle H. said...

I haven't seen cornhusks dolls since I was a child and we went on a field trip to a colonial fort. This brings back memories.

Beverlydru said...

I love traditions that generate warm memories. You've inspired me to post a photo of my Easter tree. (A tabletop decoration.)

A Woman Of No Importance said...

I hadn't seen these in years, either Z - They are so lovely - Thank you for that sweet, innocent memory...

Hilary said...

Those are adorable. I'm trying to remember where I've seen some corn husk dolls not too long ago. Perhaps a craft show. I think it's sweet that you decorate for Easter.

Hazel Designs said...

These are great! Did you make these yourself?

prkc said...

It's nice to see an article about corn husk dolls! I love and make corn husk dolls and you can see some of mine at http:// prkc.etsy.com

Mahmud Yussop said...

Very creative handiwork. Excellent souvenier.

Zuzana said...

=Diane,
how fun that you recognize these.;))In Slovakia they are everywhere and always on display in peoples homes, almost a symbol of our traditions.;))

=Claus,
actually I thought, until very recently, that this tradition was purely Slavic, but I found on the internet that even native Americans make similar crafts. Your comment reinforces the fact that this tradition is spread all over the world.;)) Makes the vast distance between us a bit smaller,;))

=Michelle,
I am always glad to be instrumental in bringing back someones childhood memories.;)) Maybe it is time to make that trip again.;)

=Beverlydru,
ah how wonderful to been an inspiration. I look forward to see the picture of your Easter Tree very much.;)) Thank you for stopping by again;)

=Fhina,
always happy to make someone smile when remembering something wonderful in the past.;))

=Hilary,
so glad you liked those.;)) Yes, I always try to decorate for Easter. Not nearly as much as my mother used to.;) When I was a child, Easter was a big holiday with many celebrations that I will write about later.;)
I have gotten slightly away from the traditions as when living in the US, I felt Easter was not so big. Upon my return here I am again trying to get back to the old traditions; I even try to decorate Easter Eggs, with more or less success (see today's post).;))

=Hazel,
I wish! No, those are bought in Slovakia. Some of them I got as gifts, some I bought myself.;)) But it sure would be great to be able to make them.;))

=prkc,
how interesting that you make corn husk dolls, I make sure to visit your site. Thank you for stopping by.;)

=Mahmud,
yes I agree, it is an easy souvenir to bring back. And it is ever lasting.;))

Gal Friday said...

Oh my goodness..I swear I had some of the exact same dolls when I was around 11 or 12 years old! I went through a phase in my life where I collected them. I wonder what ever happened to them. At least you held on to yours...

Zuzana said...

=Tina,
how wonderful that you recognize them and that you collected them as well! They might still be in your boxes somewhere, who knows.;))

Noelle Chantal said...

These are adorable collectible display dolls. And it's made of dried corn husk! I also see some of these corn husks designed for christmas decors and halooweens! very cute! :)

Zuzana said...

=Noelle,
yes, these dolls are very common decoration in Slovakia, where I come from.;)) I am happy you enjoyed learning about this craft.;)