Hair Bracelet */**

Teacher: Evelin Siiman

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Evelin Siiman graduated from the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy with a degree in Heritage Technology and Textiles (2020) and MA in Creative Applications of Cultural Heritage (2023). During her studies, her focus has been on human hair jewellery made in Estonia. Evelin has written a seminar paper, a diploma thesis and a master's thesis about her research of hair jewellery.

Hair jewellery which included various techniques was widespread in Europe and the USA mainly from the 18th to 20th century. At its peak in the mid-19th century, hairwork became very popular, and jewellery was made not only by craftsmen but also by ordinary people in their homes. In Estonian museum collections, the most numerous categories of hairwork items are pocket watch chains and necklaces, worn by both women and men as accessories to urban-style costumes. All of them were made using a table work disc and no other materials besides hair. There are just a few items, where pearls are added as decoration or metal fastenings as a connecting piece.

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In this workshop, participants will learn about the tools and techniques of braiding jewellery from hair and will gain experience of working with hair as a material. The aim of the workshop is to make a bracelet with synthetic hair. A metal clasp will be added to the bracelet. The bracelet will be braided using a braiding table and a pattern, which is suitable for people who have never encountered the technique before.

Participants can bring and use their own hair, if they wish. All hair have to be at least 45 cm long and in a neat, even bunch, about 1 cm in diameter. Preparing the material for braiding requires counting the hairs one by one, so is suitable for a patient braider. Previous experience in fine handicraft is also a prerequisite.

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Good eyesight is required to count hairs. Participants with close set eyes must have suitable glasses or a magnifier for themselves at the workshop. The participation fee includes all the materials and tools needed (braiding table, bobbins, thread, scissors, synthetical hair and metal clasps. The level of the workshop is suitable for beginners and intermediate participants.

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