branja

Bracanje is a traditional textile technique originating from the Balkan region, particularly in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia. It involves the use of the wooden shuttles, needle, and thread to weave lightweight, dense fabric called braca. The technique was formally recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2009.

Bracanje is often associated with traditional Croatian folk costumes, and the fabric produced through this method was used for clothing, embroidery, and home furnishings. The fabric's unique texture and durability make it highly valued among textile enthusiasts and collectors. The traditional braca fabric has a characteristic tight weave, resulting from the use of the wooden shuttles that enabled the weavers to create intricate patterns.

The traditional bracanje technique involves the use of cotton or linen threads, which are often dyed by hand. The process of creating braca fabric is labor-intensive and requires great skill and patience. Today, bracanje practitioners continue to use traditional methods to preserve the technique and create unique pieces of handmade textile art. The work of these artisans showcases the impact that intangible cultural inheritances have on modern textile culture.

Through bracanje, the rich cultural heritage of the Balkan region is preserved and shared among communities worldwide. The technique has inspired contemporary fashion designers and textile artists to explore innovative ways of preserving regional traditions within the context of modern design.