A project to collect detailed information on the traditional regalia of Estonia's 108 historical parishes and make it available in an online database has been approved for funding by the Ministry of Culture.

Although the database was set up by the non-profit Rahvarõivas (Folk Costume) and the Estonian Folk Art and Craft Union as far back as 2008, the website currently provides information on only a small number of traditional clothing items.

The Estonian Folk Costumes project, slated to receive 32,900 euros in ministry support this year, aims to finish the job by 2016, providing in-depth detail on traditional costumes, accessories and footwear worn by women, men and children.

Each entry will be illustrated with a set of photographs, drawings, sources for further research and tutorials on making the clothes.

The ministry said in a statement that the project will help preserve the tradition of sewing national costumes as well as the cultural heritage they represent.

“There are a lot of people who are interested in making traditional clothes for themselves, but finding information on authentic folk costumes is challenging,” said Eino Pedanik, the ministry's adviser on folk culture.

Ingrid Teesalu