Collection: Hana (Ručni Tkani)

My story

It was on one of these looms that my grandfather Jan Okénka also wove, and before him his father, Tomáš Okénka, who had bought it on his return from America after the First World War: a loom at least a hundred years old.

As a little girl, I loved to sit near the loom and watch my grandfather weave, and I gradually learned all the techniques from him. I never imagined that one day I would make it my profession.

After my studies, I started a family and, after my parental leave, I couldn't find a job in my field. So I thought I could try to earn some money by weaving. I started making placemats and small cushions for the home, like my grandfather used to do.
Little by little, I made a name for myself, I traveled all over the country to present the craft and I tried to show this know-how to as many people as possible. I gradually taught my two daughters and my husband to weave, and they have always supported me in this work.

I never imagined I would receive the title of "Guardian of Craft Traditions" from the Minister of Culture, a distinction awarded annually to a maximum of five artisans. It recognizes those who have mastered endangered craft techniques at a high level and who contribute to preserving and passing them on.

Since 1995, the year I started making a living from this craft, my product range has expanded. However, I have never abandoned the production of traditional costume items, such as woven aprons for men, petticoats for women, or large decorated cushions called cíšky.

My inspiration

I'm often asked where I get my inspiration for creating new products. For patterns, I rely on what my grandfather taught me; I'm inspired by his creations, some of which I still use in my home. Sometimes, a new idea comes to me, and I try it out. My husband often has the best ideas: he's not afraid to experiment, and sometimes he comes up with a pattern so beautiful that I learn it and incorporate it into my designs.
Then as now, each weaver had and still has his own style, and I can still recognize what my grandfather wove and what someone else from the village wove.

When it comes to the products, it's mostly my family who comes up with the ideas! My daughters helped me with all the little decorations like the birds and cherubs. My husband helped me develop a fabric glass and bottle holder; we realized there was a real demand for them among winemakers at tasting meetings.

Even today, I have new creations based on the needs and ideas of my family members, who help me very willingly.