In Mahilioŭ Region still exist small communities of hereditary masters of felting known as the ‘šapavals’, who make valionki (felt boots), maherkas (brimless hats), bryls (brimmed hats), etc. Drybin area is one of the centers for felting. Today, there are over a dozen of ‘šapavals’ working in Drybin area, who master the craft and pass it on to their followers.
It was the mastery of felting hats that was reflected in the word ‘šapavals’ ...
