Basketry Master Helena Rogala – Cattail Queen – one of the last remaining basket makers who weave unique cattail bags for us. More than 10 years ago, Serfenta became fascinated with the unusual Polish basketry material – cattail, also called bulrush, typha latifolia. 

During the expeditions in search of basketry masters, we found the master Helena Rogala, called cattail queen, who weaves typha precisely and beautifully like no one else. And we began our long-term cooperation and friendship with her. Serfena has cooperated with Helena for 13 years. Along with her family, she cuts cattail manually in muddy ponds. Each blade is cut by hand with a sickle by Helena and her family. Then the heavy bundles are taken out and transported to the garden, where they season in large stacks until summer. The harvest lasts all day or several days. Then she cleans the material uses it to weave. Helena’s bags are part of our offer thanks to our long-standing friendships formed during Serfenta’s basketry expeditions.

Take a look at the cutting process!  

Join the only cattail weaving workshop at Serfenta this year!  

Meet Helena Rogala as you stay at home – buy a tutorial DVD and see how the bag is made! 

Helena’s bags are part of our offer thanks to our long-standing friendships formed during Serfenta’s basketry expeditions. By purchasing them, you support local Polish craft and Basketry Master Helena directly.