Guests of the "Geography Lessons" exposition learned to create treasure with their own hands
Choosing a unique stone and using it to make a keyring with an individual design — a creative workshop on making treasures by hand was held at the National Centre RUSSIA. Under the guidance of artisans, each guest made an unusual souvenir that can become either a personal talisman or a gift with a special story.
The workshop began with a short lecture. The craftspeople explained that minerals had formed in the Earth’s crust over billions of years, going through high pressure, heating, crystallisation and many other processes before turning into the sparkling stones familiar to us. The participants were reminded that quartz is one of the most common minerals on Earth, while its purple variety is called amethyst and gains its colour from iron impurities. Pyrite was shown separately; because of its resemblance to the precious metal, it was once known as "fool’s gold".
The guests were told that stones are perceived not only visually, but also through touch: first, the participants chose a mineral by feel — the one that "resonated" with them and felt especially pleasant in the hand. The craftspeople explained which stones are traditionally associated with energy, calmness or inner balance, and suggested that those who wished could learn more about their mineral using special cards.
Then came the practical part. The participants learned how to attach the keyring base, choose fittings and measure the cords so that the weaving looked neat. First, the guests practised the simplest fastenings, and then moved on to more complex techniques. Some chose twisted weaving, others opted for a classic braid, while the boldest tried elements of macrame.
"I made my keyring in the macrame style. The hardest part was when I had to weave the knots right at the end, but I managed it. I chose a blue stone for the souvenir; I think it represents everything good: kindness, life and intelligence," said workshop participant Nikita Yevdokimov from Troitsk.
The artisans moved between the tables, helped the guests tie their first knots, made sure the ends of the threads were the right length, and advised them on how best to combine the colours of the cords with the shade of the stone — either on the principle of harmony or, conversely, contrast.
"I chose red and white threads because the stone has more of a blue shade, and in the end it looked like the flag of the Russian Federation. The weaving was not difficult: the main thing is to understand how to start, and after that it becomes much easier. The craftspeople helped a lot and explained everything wonderfully," shared workshop participant Anna Chekhova.
By the end of the session, each guest was holding their own "piece of Russia’s treasure chest". According to the participants, it was the opportunity to touch the stone, learn its story and turn it into a personal talisman that made the workshop especially memorable.
The interactive stations "Camp of Masters" also continue to operate at the "Geography Lessons" exposition. There, visitors learn basic tourist skills: how to pack a backpack properly, tie strong and reliable knots, and pitch a tent. The interactive stations will operate every day until 9 July.
In addition, on Sunday, 24 May, guests of the National Centre RUSSIA and the "Geography Lessons" exposition can take part in the immersive quest "The Mystery of the Lost Map". The participants will face geography tasks and learn hiking skills, many of which will also be useful in everyday life. Immersing themselves in the quest scenario, guests will discover Russia’s natural and geographical diversity and will be able to feel like real explorers. Details and registration are available on the website in the "Events" section.
During the all-Russian survey "What does the Motherland begin with?", people across the country are answering this question in their own way, opening up the innermost corners of their souls.
Souvenir nevalyashkas (traditional Russian roly-poly dolls), are attracting particular attention, with guests choosing them for their harmonious combination of Russian colour and traditional Chinese symbols.
A special series of nevalyashkas (roly-poly dolls), prepared by the National Centre RUSSIA together with the Kotovskie Nevalyashki factory from the Tambov Region.
