Traditional Romanian Embroidery Techniques of the Muscel Region

In July of 2026 I am traveling with a colleague to Romania, around the city of Rucar, to photograph and interview local artisans and collectors of the traditional costume of the Muscel region. Since I have learned of these stunning blouses and the incredible women who still embroider them, I have been studying and collecting information about the symbols and history of the Ia— this traditional blouse— and have been slowly, surely, working on my own Ia.

Here are a few photos of my progress on the first sleeve. . .

I began with a traditional design, adapted to use my favorite colors, and have altered the pattern to incorporate additional symbols and shapes I am draw to.

This is the original pattern I purchased here: https://maiestria.com/en/

I have been designing each section in ProCreate— and adapting as I go. . .