Describe your profession, with details on products, services, expertise and know how.
My name is Floare Roman, I am 82 years old and I am originally from Vasad, Bihor county. My works imply weaving, sewing, crocheting and lace.
What materials do you use? Where and how you purchase them?
Describe the techniques, the tools and the materials you use in your work.
I learned to work with the ‘Frivolite’ technique at the Normal Teachers’ School, from a teacher in Bessarabia. Over time, I learned to make traditional Maramuresan necklaces alone. I am a member of the Academy of Arts and Traditional Crafts from Maramures, Baia Mare.
A technique present in Romania since the 19th century, string date is the most common way to make lace, used to decorate the interior of the house: tablecloths, decorative lace, in different shapes and colors.
I also work ‘cipcá’ for decorating the interior of houses, but also for delicate collars for clothes. The ‘frivolite’ technique has been known in Europe since the 18th century, being taught in schools in Romania, especially in the interwar period. The results of this technique are laces of extraordinary fineness. I make decorative laces, but also imaginative paintings.
What is your “ideal” client’s profile?
At what age and under what circumstances did you start this job?
I have started in childhood, learning from my mother and my grandma. They were the ones who gave me the love and passion for this craft and I am grateful to them until the end of my life
Where and how long have you been trained before you were ready to start your own business? In a training institute, with a craftsman or both? What do you think is the best way to learn your job today? Schools, training with craftsmen …?
I practiced this craft for many years until I turned my passion into a second job out of it. It takes a lot of time to learn the art of weaving and sewing, but dedication and patience is the key
What role do “talent” and “creativity” play in your profession?
And what about innovation, what are the changes since you started? Do you use new materials, tools, or processes in manufacturing and marketing? What is the impact of innovation on your performance? How could your profession be even more innovative?
What is the best way to learn your profession?
What is your message to younger generations who might choose your profession?
I tell the young generations to never forget where they came from, to return to their roots and to respect Romanian tradition and culture.
