Also called filet lacing, net darning is a technique, similar to lace, developed in Europe during the 19th century. Lace making and net darning are traditional Serbian crafts, often used to decorate towels and other household items. Intricate embroidery patterns made with silk and cotton threads are also part of Serbian tradition and to decorate women's clothes.
The pottery tradition in Serbia goes back to ancient times. The eastern town of Pirot is famous for its Byzantine-design pottery, which the Serbs have created since the 7th century. Historically, Serbs made ceramic objects using a manual or foot wheel. However, some items were exclusively hand-shaped, without the use of any rotating tool.
Hand weaving of rugs and mats, called kilims, is an important part of Serbian cultural heritage. This traditional activity began in the 16th century and two centuries later became the main economy of many towns across the country. These rugs are often red with black, showing blue, white and yellow geometrical patterns.
Opanci shoes were traditionally used in Serbia and other Balkan countries, such as Macedonia, Croatia and Bulgaria. They are handmade of leather, did not have laces and feature a hornlike tip on the front. Every region of Serbia has a different horn design. In modern-day Serbia, the art of opanci shoe making is still alive, but these shoes are only used as part of traditional costumes.