Alisa & Amna Mujkanović

Bogda Rukotvorine

Weaver

The magic of Bosnian wool

Alisa learned the craft from her mother
Together they create rugs, scarves and toys
All of their products are entirely handmade

Although weaving was part of her family heritage, Alisa Mujkanović took up the craft seven years ago after leaving another career. Her mother, Amna, suggested that she could teach her a few techniques, just to have a hobby while she was looking for another job. That’s how her mother became her teacher and gave her an idea for a new career path. Their atelier Bogda (piece) was born. A piece of her soul and her mother's teachings and creativity are captured in every rug, scarf and toy that Alisa makes. All the pieces of Bogda Rukotvorina are made of Bosnian sheep's wool. The wool is washed, combed and dyed completely by hand and without the use of chemicals.

Interview

Why did you choose this craft?: I did not learn this craft thinking that it would be my career, but during the process I recognized the impulse in myself and how fulfilled I was. Discovering all the techniques, seeing the finished products and their beauty, I realised that I wanted to turn my hobby into a business.
What was the first object you made?: Our first idea was to take the recycled textile rug off the floor in our home and give it a new shape. That is, to keep the traditional weaving technique but with a modern design and new application.
When did you open your own workshop?: Our first workshop was in the living room. We worked from there for two years, until I entered a project that aims to help young people get jobs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 2018, I managed to turn the ground floor of the family home into an atelier.
What is a memorable moment on your craft journey?: I learned the craft from my mother who is quite strict. When I started learning this craft she always told me that if I wanted to pursue this I had to become better than my teacher. Finally, after three years of work, she told me that I was even better than her at weaving.

Alisa & Amna Mujkanović are expert artisans: they began their career in 2015