Birch bark has been a popular material in Russia for hundreds of years.

Birch trees hold a special place in traditional Russian culture. Folk beliefs credit the tree’s bark with warding off evil spirits and soothing the soul.  So, it’s no surprise that Russian woodsmen have crafted birch bark “trinkets” for hundreds of years.

Folk art beliefs not withstanding, birch bark is waterproof and actually has antibacterial properties.  It’s flexible, can be formed into sheets and bent into a multitude of shapes and forms.  Because it is soft, the bark is easy to tool, carve or cut.  Just as with fine leather, craftsmen can impress the surface using special metal dies.

Today’s contemporary Russian craftsmen employ the same basic techniques as their predecessors did in past centuries.  During a short period in early summer, woodsmen harvest bark from trees that have been marked for cutting.  Craftsmen trim the bark as they create multiple layers and lacy designs that form the blank boxes.  Then they create both traditional and contemporary designs using stamping tools.  Finally, the craftsman applies a thin coat of protective paraffin wax.  The finished box shows the barks natural marking, making each piece a truly unique creation.