Karolina Merska

Delicate, colourful and intricate structures made of rye straw and coloured paper, Pająki (pah-yonk-ee) are traditional Polish chandeliers made by hand for special occasions. Their history dates back to the mid-18th century, made by women as decorations for their homes for Christmas, Easter, weddings and Christenings. They are also a symbol of harvest and happiness in the New Year. Suspended from the ceiling, amongst colourful paper cut-outs, paintings and paper flowers, they have become a popular decoration in Polish villages. 

Originally from Poland, Karolina Merska is keeping the Pająki tradition alive. Inspired by Polish folk art, she started making Pająki chandeliers in 2015 and has been sharing her passion and knowledge for Pająki through workshops in her studio in East London, around the world ever since and through her online shop folka. Her work has been celebrated internationally by Channel 4, The World of Interiors, House and Garden, Elle Decoration, The Telegraph, Time Out, Harper’s Bazaar and many more. Her first book Making Mobiles. Create Beautiful Polish Pajaki from Natural Materials was published in May 2021.

Find out more and follow Karolina Merska of folka:
www.folka.co

@_folka_