Orthodox Orarions — Hand-Embroidered Deacon Stoles | Made in USA
✦ Orthodox Priest and Deacon Vestments Made in USA since 2016 ✦ ✦ Orthodox Priest & Deacon Vestments · Made in USA ✦

Orarions

14 items

Orthodox orarions — the long, embroidered stole worn over the left shoulder by deacons during the divine services — are the most visible mark of the diaconal office. At our workshop in Florida we hand-cut, hand-sew, and hand-embroider every orarion to the exact length the wearer needs, in the Greek or Slavic style, with the embroidery and trim you choose.

Browse the orarions below, or contact us for a fully custom design — including double orarions for protodeacons and archdeacons (any length over 140″ is automatically treated as a double).

About the Orthodox orarion

The orarion is one of the oldest pieces of Orthodox clergy vestments still in continuous use. Some commentators trace it back to the towel with which Christ girded Himself at the Last Supper to wash the apostles’ feet — a visible reminder that the deacon serves at the altar in the spirit of humility.

Single vs. double orarion

A single orarion is worn by deacons in both Greek and Slavic traditions. In the Greek style it hangs straight down, front and back. In the Slavic style it is crossed under the right arm so both ends meet at the front-left.

A double orarion — typically anything over 140 inches in length — is granted to protodeacons and archdeacons as a mark of their seniority. It is worn doubled: looped over the left shoulder, brought across the back under the right arm, and returned over the left shoulder again, so the end falls in front.

How we make them

Every orarion in our shop is made by hand in our Florida studio:

  • Cut to length. Standard sizes from 110″ up; double orarions custom-cut over 140″.
  • Embroidered with metal thread. Crosses, “Holy, Holy, Holy,” and decorative borders in gold or silver couched thread.
  • Lined and tasseled. Silk lining, hand-knotted gold or silver tassels at the ends.

If you need a specific color, icon, or inscription, just message us before you order — we’ll build the design together.

Frequently asked about orarions

What length orarion do I need?

For a single orarion, the standard length is about 120 inches — long enough to drape comfortably front and back. For a double orarion, anything over 140 inches works; most protodeacons order between 145 and 160 inches. If you tell us the wearer’s height we can recommend a length.

Is a double orarion only for protodeacons?

In current practice, yes — the double orarion is awarded to protodeacons and archdeacons. We will gladly produce one for any deacon whose bishop has authorized it; please mention the blessing when you order.

Can I get Greek-style or Slavic-style?

Both. The fabric and embroidery are identical; the difference is how the orarion is worn. We do not need to know your tradition when you order — just the length, fabric, and embroidery pattern.

How long does a custom orarion take?

Most custom orders ship in 4-8 weeks depending on the embroidery complexity. If you have a deadline (an upcoming ordination, feast day, or visit), tell us when you order and we’ll confirm the timeline.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — we ship Orthodox orarions and the rest of our liturgical embroidery worldwide. International shipping is calculated at checkout based on your address.

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