Embroidery patterns

Lazarki

The ancient Bulgarian tradition of Lazaruvane is a marital maiden spring celebration. The Lazarki maidens embroidered and spoke their inmost longing for love and happiness upon their clothes. The goal was to make them visible to the world, to show and attract what they want. The symbol illustrates maturity and a new stage in life, transition to love.

Star

Star is one of the old-time elements in the Bulgarian embroideries also known as Rosetta or Elbetitsa. In it the circle of nature, life and destiny united in one common stable center, which symbolizes the sun, the mother and fertility. The star is a wish for health and blessing, embodiment of strength and protection against unclean powers. It brings harmony into our world and in our relations with the people around us. 

Sun

One of the meanings of the ancient swastika is “su asti” (“wellbeing”) or “Let there be good!”. It is a talisman of good fortune and when turned in the other direction, is stands as a symbol of the feminine beginning, which brings power from the earth and opens a way for the new. Old Bulgarians called the sun “Rayko” and believed that in the morning it washes in the waters of the sea, makes a cradle with its rays and bestows new life. 

Protectors

The protectors keep the male power. They bestow protection and prosperity to the loved ones. This sign symbolizes balance and equilibrium. And the predominant red colour is embodiment of life and blood which keep the mind alert. 

Wedding

Wedding is a union of the male and female beginnings, of two things that give birth to a third one – a new thing, continuation. This pattern comes to protect and safeguard the union. Rooster is a sign of fertility and strengthens the male fertile and the female reproductive powers. 

Nativity

This pattern shows the divine essence of man. The sunny beginning descending over the soul, which in turn stretches out its hands to it. It symbolizes Nativity – the birth of something holy here on earth. It is believed to be a royal sign. 

Grace

God’s grace is pouring down into the heart of man, bringing joy. Grace winds like a horo dance – it twists until it completely weaves together man’s strength and rhythm.