Historically, Czech folklore has been based on arts and crafts. All kinds of folklore groups can be found in the Czech Republic. The mission of these groups is to preserve local traditions and folklore and pass their heritage on to the next generation. All ages of people participate in folklore groups, starting with young children and continuing through adulthood.
A popular traditional product is cornhusk dolls. In the past, children played with these cornhusk dolls made from strings and a few cornhusks. Today they are used as decorations. For those looking for a truly traditional souvenir, cornhusk dolls are a great choice in the Czech Republic. Traditional artistic products such as pottery are also popular. It is common to see folklore patterns, simple ornaments, and floral ornaments painted on Bohemian and Moravian pottery. Pottery serves both decorative and functional purposes. Another popular traditional item is bobbin lace. Vamberk, a city in Eastern Bohemia, is known for its bobbin lace products. In addition to its glass production, the Czech Republic also contributes to its heritage with crystal glasses, bowls, vases, and other products. The indigo print product is a hand-made textile product. A variety of accessories are made from this material, including tablecloths and toys.
A project called 'Folk Trades and Handicrafts in the Czech Republic' was launched by the National Institute of Folk Culture (NIFC) in 1997. This project aimed to document traditional crafts through film. In identifying producers, fieldwork revealed that most workshops were having financial difficulties and were having difficulty selling and producing their products. An immediate response was required; contact between farmers and customers was to be renewed, and awareness of traditional crafts and their technologies was to be raised. To address this issue, the Ministry of Culture and the NIFC set up the Bearers of Folk Craft Tradition program in 2000. This program aims to protect, preserve, and promote traditional crafts. Additionally, artisans and their products are protected by trademarks, which give them access to public awards, grants, and donations. NIFC also collects and assesses award-winning producers' collections of traditional crafts in addition to documenting and researching traditional crafts. Award-winning producers receive promotional materials including leaflets, business cards, tags, and a brochure called 'Bearers of Tradition', which is a collection of leaflets, business cards, tags, etc., which highlight traditional crafts. There are dedicated websites, publications, a DVD, and a permanent exhibition in Chanovice that keep the public informed.
References
(https://ich.unesco.org/en/BSP/strategy-for-safeguarding-traditional-crafts-the-bearers-of-folk-craft-tradition-programme-01468) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czech_folklore#Traditional_arts_and_crafts)