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How to Make a Traditional Bulgarian Martenitsa Pizho and Penda

Introduction

The Martenitsa is one of the most iconic symbols of Bulgarian culture, carrying a message of health, happiness, and spring renewal. In this article, we will show you how to create your own traditional Martenitsa Pizho and Penda. The process is simple, creative, and a wonderful way to bring the holiday spirit into your home or delight your loved ones with a handmade Martenitsa.

Materials Needed

To make your Martenitsa, you will need the following materials, which you can find on the website and in the stores of EM ART:

• Red wool yarn
• White wool yarn
• Three-color wool yarn
• Black cotton yarn
• Twisted yarn for Martenitsa
• Decorative ribbons
• Metal coins
• Wooden Bagpipe
• Hot glue gun

Steps to Make

1. Making Penda (the female figure)

1. Take red wool yarn and wrap it around a piece of cardboard – this will form the base for the body.
2. Carefully slide the wrapped yarn off the cardboard and cut it at one end.
3. Tie the bundle in the middle with twisted yarn, leaving long ends for a bow at the end.
4. Form the head by tying a piece of yarn about 2-3 cm below the top.
5. For the arms, wrap white yarn around your hand. Split the body into two equal parts and place the arms in the middle. Cut and tie the ends with white thread.
6. Tie around the waist to shape the figure.
7. Wrap a longer piece of white yarn around the neck, cross it over the front, and tie it around the waist.
8. Add a decorative ribbon as an apron and glue metal coins (belt decorations).

2. Making Pizho (the male figure)

1. Repeat the same steps, but this time use white yarn for the body.
2. Make the arms with red yarn and tie them at the ends.
3. Cross black yarn over the front to create the traditional men’s outfit.
4. After shaping the body, split the lower part into two equal parts to create trousers.
5. Tie each leg at the end with black yarn to form pant cuffs.
6. Add a decorative belt made of ribbon.
7. Glue a wooden bagpipe figurine to complete Pizho’s look.
8. Finish the twisted strings with a bow to connect Pizho and Penda.

Recommendations and Additional Ideas

• Use different textile ribbons and beads to make the Martenitsa even more beautiful.
• If you want smaller Martenitsas, simply wrap less yarn or use a smaller piece of cardboard.
• Instead of a hot glue gun, you can sew the decorations if you prefer a more traditional crafting method.

Conclusion

Making Pizho and Penda is a wonderful way to keep Bulgarian traditions alive and bring a unique handmade Martenitsa into the festive season. In the stores of EM ART, you will find all the necessary materials for your DIY Martenitsa. Share the joy of handmade crafts and surprise your loved ones with an authentic and unique Martenitsa!