Tilkkutöissä

Tilkkutöissä is a traditional Finnish craft practice that focuses on the creation and decoration of wooden tiles, known as tilkut. The practice emerged in the late 19th century as part of the broader folk art movement in Finland, which sought to preserve local artistic expressions during a period of rapid industrialization. Items produced in tilkkutöissä include home decor items such as table mats, wall panels, and decorative borders, as well as functional objects like coasters and small cabinets.

Craftsmen working in tilkkutöissä typically use sustainably sourced pine or spruce, which are cut into thin, square boards. The boards are then carved with a combination of hand tools and hand‑powered carving knives to create intricate geometric patterns or figurative motifs. Once carved, the tiles are glazed or painted with natural pigments derived from forest vegetation, such as spruce bark or birch resin, and sealed with a thin layer of linseed oil. The finishing technique produces a subtle sheen that accentuates the carved detail while protecting the wood from moisture.

In contemporary times, tilkkutöissä has experienced a revival among artisans who view the craft as a means of preserving traditional Finnish aesthetics. National craft associations encourage apprenticeships and workshops that combine historical methods with modern design sensibilities. Museums in Finland occasionally feature tilkkutöissä pieces in exhibits dedicated to folk art and domestic décor, underscoring its role not only as a craft but also as a cultural artifact that reflects regional identity and natural resources.