Basket weaving and fishing verestyanoy
In the history of the handicrafts of Arzamas district there was a bright page connected with the flourishing of such famous crafts as production utensils of birch-bark and rod-braiding.
The remarkable feature of this craft is a peculiar and exquisite pattern ornament that determined the composition of birch-bark products in purely Arzamas style. The carving was used to depict flower garlands, roses, rosettes, vine. Specialists in local lore explain it by adoption of the motifs and traditions of the golden embroidery that was one of the most popular folk handicrafts in Arzamas district.
The birch-bark craft that appeared in the 17th century in the villages of Chernukha and Naumovka rapidly spread over the forestry area of the south-west of Arzamas district. The opening of the art school by Academician A. Stupin was the most powerful spur to the development of the craft. The artists of the school designed patterns for their countrymen – birch-bark masters – enriching them with figure and plant ornament. Chests, boxes and pots were decorated with stamped leaves, rosettes or spiral coil with a circle in the center; or a similar pattern was made by multiple laying the material on the surface of the product, which made the pattern seem volumetrical. Frequently they used a combination of techniques: carving, stamping and appliquй just in one product.
In the produce of birch-bark objects there are small boxes, pots, women's dress accessories, small exquisite knick-knackery, packing for alcohol beverages and confectionary. It should be noted that birch-bark is not only beautiful – it has healing power and antibacterial properties. In the production only edible vanish, vanish on water solution, natural grass die-staff, medical glue are used, which makes the products ecologically clean.
“Aktar” Ltd. is a successor to the traditions of Arzamas crafts. It specializes in rod-braiding and production of souvenirs of birch-bark. The main activity is manufacture of elegant braided furniture: rocking-chairs, sofas and small chairs, as well as objects for interior decorating such as braided frameworks for glasses, lamp-shades, panels and ashtrays, vases and baskets. In making objects for different purposes the craftsmen masterly use different techniques of rod-braiding: simple braiding, braiding in rows, square braiding, braiding in two, three, four or five rods, etc.
Annually the company participates in the largest fairs and exhibitions of handicrafts, and has been rewarded with many diplomas.