Kézimunka

Kézimunka denotes hand-made crafts created by manual techniques rather than by machine. It covers activities such as varrás (sewing), hímzés (embroidery), horgolás (crochet), kötés (knitting), and csipkekészítés (lace-making). The term literally means "hand work" and is used in Hungarian to describe items or practices produced by hand.

Historically, kézimunka has been a common domestic skill in Hungary and Central Europe. It played a role in household economies and in the transmission of regional styles. Traditions include regional embroidery motifs, lace techniques, and decorative textile crafts used on clothing, linens, and religious items. These practices served utilitarian and aesthetic purposes and were often taught within families or local communities such as schools or clubs.

Today, kézimunka remains a popular hobby and cultural heritage activity. It is pursued by hobbyists, craft clubs, and online communities, with patterns and kits widely available. While many people continue to emphasize traditional handwork, others integrate contemporary designs or combine hand-made techniques with light machine work. The term continues to describe both the practice and the resulting hand-made items.