Fifteen women have enrolled in the course at the Yozgat Municipality Bilal Şahin Cultural Center, where master instructor Aynur Caner leads them in weaving regional motifs into kilims, thus carrying on a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
While painstakingly weaving these kilims, the women improve their craft skills, socialize, and forge new friendships.
In addition to kilims, they also produce dastar (a type of woven cloth), living room sets, prayer rugs (seccade), runners (yolluk), bags, and even dresses.
Motifs Are Modernized Without Losing Their Essence
Master instructor Aynur Caner told Anadolu Agency (AA) that they are striving to bring long-forgotten motifs back into the spotlight.
“We remain faithful to traditional patterns,” Caner said. “We modernize them without altering their original form, thereby preserving the art. I initially began this craft by studying Carpet Weaving at Yozgat Bozok University. I had already been interested in handicrafts. Then I completed an internship in Kastamonu to improve my skills. I’ve been practicing the art of weaving for 15 years.”
Emphasizing that they also incorporate Yozgat’s regional motifs into their work, Caner noted that the trainees earn additional income from the items they weave.
Güler Uzunkaya, one of the course participants, came from Malatya to Yozgat after the earthquakes that struck Kahramanmaraş and surrounding areas.
“I thought the course would be beneficial for me psychologically,” she explained. “I saw the weaving course, spoke with the instructor, and she offered to help. That’s how I started. We have a great group of friends here, and it’s been good for my mental health.”
Another participant, Müşerref Soldamlı, said she has been attending public education center courses ever since she retired from Yozgat Bozok University in 2012.
“I find it relaxing and a productive way to spend my time,” she added.