Valera Stelmakh

Valera Stelmakh lived in a retirement home in the village of Peremoga.

Since 2015, he has been an enthusiast and master craftsman of rag rug weaving. His works are purchased for cosy homes, hotels, and as gifts. The biggest fans are from Italy, England, and the USA, where eco-friendly handmade items are in high demand.

The shape and size of the product are dictated by the wooden frames that the master uses for weaving. The colours come from used items that are collected, washed and sorted by the Laska charity shop and volunteers from the foundation. The designs, although limited by the technique used, are mostly the fruit of Valery’s imagination and inspiration. Here he is a true artist.

‘Weaving is a way for me to express myself, get attention, recognition and financial support,’ said Valery.

15 June 2021 is a historic date in this story. Master Valery Stelmakh received the title of honorary lecturer at the Institute of the Third Age in Ukrainka.

On June 20, 2026, the talented artisan’s heart stopped beating. He was 53 years old. All that remains in his memory is a portfolio of his early works and a few more rugs in our shop.