Bodrum, to this day, preserves its heritage in the field of traditional handicrafts. As a place that has hosted many civilizations, Bodrum is not only a historical site but also a living legacy through these handicrafts. Among the traditional handicrafts of Bodrum that bear traces of different civilizations are needlework, Bodrum fabric, weaving, glasswork, wood carving, tinsmithing, and rope-making. With masters passing down these crafts from generation to generation, the handicrafts have survived until today, attracting significant interest from visitors to Bodrum.
This article will provide detailed explanations about traditional handicrafts of Bodrum under the following headings:
- Needlework
- Bodrum fabric
- Weaving
- Glasswork
- Wood carving
- Tinsmithing
- Rope-making
Needlework
Needlework, known as “Turkish lace” worldwide, has been traditionally made using cotton and synthetic threads. It is known for being a challenging type of knitting. Needlework, which stands out among the traditional handicrafts of Bodrum, allows masters to create decorations on various items and garments with motifs like roses, tulips, and carnations. Needlework, especially on headscarves, is highly renowned.
Bodrum Fabric
Traditional Bodrum fabric is a handwoven textile that can be used as a shawl or scarf. It is widely used locally due to its cotton composition, ability to absorb sweat quickly, and pleasant feel. Visitors to Bodrum also purchase historic Bodrum fabric as a souvenir.
Weaving
Weaving in Bodrum encompasses activities performed with region-specific techniques. During kilim weaving, a fine yarn is knitted on the ground, and thick threads are used to create motifs on top of this fine knitted base. The motifs have an embossed pattern and appearance.
Glasswork
Throughout history, various symbols have been made in civilizations to protect against evil and have been carried as decorative items by people. One such symbol is the evil eye bead, which is one of the products of glasswork in Bodrum. It is common to come across evil eye bead decorations, particularly in the Aegean region.
Wood Carving
Wood carving is one of the handicrafts that can be seen in many architectural structures in Bodrum. Skilled artisans produce successful handicrafts with wood carving on doors, windows, religious buildings, chests, mirrors, and ceilings.
Tinsmithing
Tinsmithing is an essential part of copper craftsmanship. To ensure that copper utensils pose no harm to health, some people have them tinned at certain times. This process is among the traditional handicrafts and has been passed down for centuries. The steps of the process include:
- First, the copper utensil is cleaned with saltwater and sand.
- Then, it is worked with molten tin heated on charcoal.
- Finally, it is polished with cotton to complete the tinning process.
- After a period of waiting, the copper utensil regains its original appearance.
Rope-Making: Traditional Handicraft of Bodrum
As a port city, Bodrum places significance on rope-making among its traditional handicrafts. The production and processing of sturdy ropes play a crucial role in the pulling and movement of ships ashore. Bodrum’s craftsmen have historically produced high-quality ropes. It is rumored that the ships pulled by Bodrum ropes were those that Fatih Sultan Mehmet ordered to be pulled into the Golden Horn.
The diversity of Bodrum’s traditional handicrafts is influenced by its history of hosting various civilizations. This diversity attracts the interest of both local and foreign tourists. The preservation of these crafts and the meticulous work of the masters are truly
