The term dotárstvo, wire craft, and art is used to refer to the technique of manufacturing using wire. Some of these methods were invented by itinerant tinkers, traveling to homes to repair kitchenware and make and sell a variety of items from wire and sheet metal. They developed a simple method involving manual bending, binding, and interlacing metal fibers, without welding or soldering; a method still used today.
As the craft developed from the early 19th century, it reflected the difficulties of life in the poorest back-country areas in the upper part of Trenčín County (Upper Váh and Kysuce), and later also in the northern part of Spiš County. By the end of the 19th century, wire craft was practiced in over 150 communities in northwestern Slovakia. Several wire craftsmen operated only within Slovakia, but others ventured far beyond the borders of the Austro-Hungarian Empire to bring a trade that had originated locally to nearly every continent.
Since the 20th century, wire craftsmen have used metal wire to produce tools for daily use and art objects. As before, they respond flexibly to the local market and enrich their heritage with the latest products. The current collection of materials also includes new types of metal wire, used in unusual combinations with other previously unknown materials. There has also been a new interest in the technical and formal development of metal crafting’s heritage. Consequently, wirework has made a significant advancement on the decorative and creative levels, increasing its artistic quality to an unprecedented level.
In the current practice, the bearers and practitioners mainly work at an artistic level, selling their products at various fairs, festivals, etc. Some of the bearers and practitioners come from families that have a multi-generational tradition of passing down skills of these related skill sets, as well as voluntary craft associations and clubs.
Because of this, traditional wire crafts are incorporated into beautiful art products, proving their viability and demonstrating their respect for the old craftsmen. In cultural-historical terms, wire craft is now viewed as a unique and specialized technique of craft and art within the national culture that is also recognized on the international level. It can be found in a wide variety of installations, including sculptures, jewelry, and craft design, as well as combinations with a huge diversity of materials.
A large part of the wire craft community's inspiration comes from the wire craft community. They represent an area in which there was a considerable amount of exchange of goods, as well as an influential channel for interethnic contacts and international trade. As a result, they should be recognized as part of Slovakia's intangible cultural heritage.