In this short video course, Karolina Merska teaches you how to make a traditional Polish kalinka pom pom which can be used as a colourful decoration on its own or used for a pajaki chandelier.
Pajaki (pah-yonk-ee) are traditional Polish chandeliers made from rye straw and paper. They symbolise health and happiness and date back to the 18th century when they were made in the countryside by women as decorations for their homes. Pajaki were especially popular at Christmas, Easter, weddings and christenings. Today the tradition is practised less and less.
The kalinka pom poms are an integral component to the pajaki, adding splashes of colour to festivities.
With UNLIMITED ACCESS 24/7, you’ll be able to drop in and out of the course at your own pace.
This course includes Karolina's extensive research into uncovering this lost craft through multiple visits to Poland over many years. Our pricing supports artists and makers in their ongoing artistic endeavours.
Progress onto making the full pajaki chandelier with Karolina Merska on Yodomo.
How is this paper craft course taught?
This course contains videos that feature verbal instructions. We’re working to add closed captions for each of our videos and we hope to complete this soon. In the meantime, a transcript for the videos in this course is available upon request. Please let us know if you require this in the notes section at checkout.
What do I need?
- Tissue paper (15 pieces)
- Ruler
- Compass
- Needle
- Scissors
- String/thread
How do I gift this course?
Karolina Merska
Karolina Merska moved from Poland to the UK in 2007 after obtaining an MA in History of Art at the Jagiellonian University Krakow. Inspired by Polish folk art, she started making Pająki chandeliers in 2015. Her work has been published and exhibited worldwide, including Channel 4, The World of Interiors, House and Garden, Elle Decoration, The Telegraph, Time Out, Harpers Bazaar, London Design Festival and more.