BORKA VLAČIĆ: BREATHING LIFE INTO TRADITION THROUGH HER HANDS

In times past, embroidery and weaving were far more than simple decorative arts.

PHOTO: eTrafika

They symbolized resourcefulness, patience, and creativity—skills carefully nurtured and passed down through generations. Today, in a world dominated by mass production and fast fashion, Borka Vlačić from Lopare is reviving these traditional crafts. For years, she has been creating handmade folk costumes and other artisanal works, preserving a rich cultural heritage.

Borka’s journey into the world of handicrafts began in her childhood. Growing up in Lopare, she watched her mother and grandmother, as well as other women in her community, working on various crafts. These experiences sparked a desire in her to learn the skills herself.

"I grew up watching my mom, grandma, and neighbors working on all kinds of handcrafts. I wanted to learn too, but no one had the time to teach me properly, so I picked up the skills by observing—what we call 'stealing the craft.' I had a strong will and, I believe, a gift from God," Borka recalls.

MASTERING THE ART OF WEAVING

Although skilled in various forms of handcrafts, Borka focuses on weaving, a discipline she found particularly challenging due to its complexity. Weaving requires immense concentration and precision, as even a single mistake can mean starting over from the beginning.

"My heart ached seeing weaving fall into oblivion, so I made it my mission to bring it back. It took me years to find a loom, and I didn’t even learn to weave until I was in my 40s. But once I started, I was driven by love, which made the learning process easier," she explains.

For Borka, weaving is more than a craft; it is a form of therapy that calms her soul and brings her joy. Despite the labor-intensive process of creating a folk costume—from cutting lace and weaving belts to sewing and embroidering dresses—she finds immense satisfaction in seeing her finished creations.

PRESERVING AUTHENTICITY IN EVERY STITCH

The time required to complete a costume depends on its type and complexity. Borka emphasizes using traditional methods, avoiding modern embroidery machines, as they detract from the authenticity of her work.

"The process can take a month or two, depending on the piece. I strive to make everything by hand, from crocheting the braids to sewing the garments. It’s more time-consuming, but it ensures the work stays true to tradition," she explains.

Sourcing quality materials is another challenge. In many smaller communities, specialized materials like fine threads, cotton fabrics, and quality wool are hard to find. Borka often has to source them from larger cities or even abroad.

"I always aim for high-quality materials—pure cotton and wool—because genuine folk costumes require authentic fabrics. Though expensive, they ensure the durability and beauty of the final product, which is important for customer satisfaction," she says.

A LABOR OF LOVE

Borka’s dedication to her craft has earned her loyal customers, including cultural and artistic societies, as well as families ordering pieces for celebrations like baptisms and weddings. Despite the hard work, she remains modest about her earnings, emphasizing love over profit.

"You can’t make a living solely from this work, especially in areas like ours with a lower standard of living. But I’m content. From my earnings, I’ve bought my loom, sewing machine, and materials, which means a lot to me," she says with a smile.

Her family, especially her daughter Sanja, has been a pillar of support. Sanja, gifted in drawing, often designs patterns for Borka’s embroidery projects.

"Many don’t realize how much effort goes into each piece. Preparing the fabric, drawing the designs, and stitching them requires immense patience. I’m fortunate to have Sanja’s help whenever she’s available," Borka says proudly.

KEEPING TRADITION ALIVE

Through her work, Borka has become a respected figure in her community and beyond. Her creations are not just functional items but works of art, each telling a story of heritage and craftsmanship.

"It’s said that the hardest place to prove yourself is in your own town. I’ve been lucky that people here truly appreciate my work. Their support, whether moral or through invitations to fairs, motivates me to keep going," she shares.

Borka collaborates with the Cultural Society "Prosvjeta" in Lopare and has received numerous awards, including a gold badge from the municipality, recognizing her contributions to preserving cultural heritage.

PASSING THE TORCH

Looking ahead, Borka’s greatest wish is to pass her knowledge on to others, ensuring the tradition of handcrafting lives on in her community.

"I’m ready to teach anyone willing to learn. Unlike in the past, when people guarded their skills, today we have the internet and countless resources to help spread knowledge. But my focus is on preserving old patterns and techniques. That’s where my heart is," she concludes.

For Borka Vlačić, each stitch and woven thread is a link between the past and present, a tribute to her ancestors, and a beacon for future generations. Through her hands, the legacy of traditional crafts continues to thrive.