THE ART OF TRADITIONAL CROCHETING IN GREECE

In Greece, crocheting was part of everyday life through which the very famous “semedaki” emerged and every house had at least one of them!

The history of crocheting is surrounded by a mystery. No one knows exactly when it started as few ancient crochet pieces have survived.

There are no ancient myths or stories about crocheting, which has led historians to conclude that it is a more modern occupation than they initially had thought. Egypt seems to be the “mother” of crocheting; however, it had soon travelled in Europe by the Arabs when moving to Spain. Since the art of crocheting arrived in Spain, it was then spread to the rest of Europe, including Greece, where it had been well established. In Greece, crocheting was part of everyday life and a craftmanship which every Greek housewife had to know. Handmade crochet pieces were an indication of care and love.

Greek women used to crochet clothes and accessories, such as socks, beanies, and scarves for their men that fought in wars for their country. Perhaps the most representative crocheted piece for the Greeks is the so-called “semedaki” that adorned every corner of the house.

With the industrial revolution of the 19th century though, machines covered the need for mass consumption of crochet wear and accessories. Crocheting, from everyday occupation became a hobby for upper-class Greek women. Therefore, it had started declining worldwide as well as in Greece and people viewed crochet pieces as “old fashioned”. However, in recent years crocheting has come to the forefront again and the handcrafted crochet work has been much appreciated again as people want to distinguish themselves from fast-fashion wear that all seems the same.

Greek women, such as Vasiliki Theodorou, revive traditional techniques and gives them a new wrap. Her love for craftmanship, original materials and the traditional art of crocheting are the “magic recipe” which led her to success.

For Vasiliki, hand crocheted bags are much more than a simple occupation. Her handmade bags are hosted in countries such as Greece, Spain, Israel, Australia, US and others.

It is striking how big was the response of the MISS POLYPLEXI bags abroad. Vasiliki was taught the art of crocheting by her mum who made her love it ever after. Next to her mum, she learned to appreciate the handmade creations, as well as the passion, love and care hidden behind them. The brand name is – of course – inspired by her beloved mum whom her first name is Polyxeni on which Vasiliki made a “play on words” and she created the word “Polyplexi”.

It is a synthesis of two Greek words “POLY” + “PLEXI”. “POLY” means “a lot” and “PLEXI” means “crochet” – exactly as Vasiliki is doing right now, she crochets a lot! Vasiliki added the word “MISS” for a personal touch on the bespoke handmade bags.