Spree Forest artisans fight to preserve traditional costume-making traditions

From embroidery workshops to contemporary twists on heritage dresses, a new generation is stitching the past into the future. Meet the women saving a fading tradition.

, and Administrator

2025 December 26 . 7:50 AM

1 min read

These are the paper decoration items and these are the trees behind them.

"That's home to me" - Leonie Schiemenz sews traditional costumes - Spree Forest artisans fight to preserve traditional costume-making traditions

Traditional costumes remain a vital part of life in the Spree Forest region, especially with Carnival season approaching. Yet, rising embroidery thread prices and factory closures are making these garments harder to produce. Despite the challenges, a small group of skilled artisans is keeping the craft alive through workshops and handmade designs.

For generations, girls in the region have received their own traditional costume after confirmation or a youth ceremony. These outfits play a key role in festivals, church services, and local customs. A single skirt alone needs three to four metres of fabric, depending on the wearer’s size.

Leonie Schiemenz, a 24-year-old from Burg, is one of the few still mastering the intricate embroidery required. Though she has no Sorbian heritage, she grew up surrounded by the culture and now teaches others how to draw and stitch floral patterns. Over the past year and a half, she has turned her passion into a side business—and demand has already filled her schedule. The Dziumblas' costume museum in Burg serves as a gathering place for local seamstresses. Women meet there to sew together, sharing techniques and preserving traditions. Meanwhile, designer Katharina Klement, based near Cottbus, has taken a modern approach. Since launching her label Wurlawy in 2014, she has crafted updated versions of traditional dresses, blending heritage with contemporary style.

The shortage of embroidery supplies poses a growing challenge for costume makers. However, artisans like Schiemenz and Klement are ensuring the craft survives through teaching and innovation. Their work keeps these cultural garments available for festivals, ceremonies, and daily wear in the Spree Forest.