käsitöös

Käsitöös, or handicrafts, refers to the practice of making objects by hand rather than through industrial production. In Estonian usage, käsitöö denotes the craft discipline, with käsitöös often used to refer to the field or activity of working with the hands.

The scope includes textile arts such as embroidery, weaving, knitting and crocheting; wood and metalworking; pottery and ceramics; leather, glass, jewelry; basketry, bookbinding, paper crafts, and more. Techniques range from sewing and looms to carving, turning, molding, and finishing.

Historically, handicrafts were a daily skill in rural life, with knowledge transmitted within families and communities. Craft traditions form part of Estonia's cultural heritage, with revival movements during the 19th and 20th centuries and continuing relevance in folk art and design.

Today, käsitöö is taught in schools, community centers, and craft programs; many makers participate in markets, fairs, and online platforms. The modern craft scene emphasizes heritage, sustainability, custom design, and small-scale production, often combining traditional motifs with contemporary aesthetics.

Käsitöös contributes to cultural preservation, local economies, and creative education, remaining a popular pastime and professional path in Estonia and among international craft communities.