Karacakılavuz Dimi Weaving

Karacakılavuz Dimi Weaving is an important textile art unique to Karacakılavuz Village in the Süleymanpaşa District of Tekirdağ Province. This weaving is recognized as one of the region’s key textile centers. The craft was introduced to Karacakılavuz by Turkish settlers who migrated from certain villages in Bulgaria between 1884 and 1885. Passed down from ancestors, it was maintained not only for agricultural and livestock purposes but also to meet household needs, utilize leisure time, and generate additional income.

^{Karacakılavuz Dimi Weaving} (Anadolu Agency)

Production Location and History: The weaving is produced within the geographical boundaries of Süleymanpaşa District in Tekirdağ Province. It has become synonymous with the region, and all stages of production must occur within this defined area. The craft has been continuously practiced for over a century by Bulgarian immigrant settlers who settled in the region.

Loom and Technique: The weaving is done by hand on four-pedal looms called “düzen,” constructed from oak and walnut wood. The most distinctive feature of this weaving is the combined use of the dimi technique from shuttle weaving and the cicim technique from tapestry weaving. The defining characteristic of the dimi technique is its four-shaft system and the passage of threads through the reed in pairs.

Materials and Colors: Factory-produced wool and cotton yarns, which are easily accessible, are generally used. Bright colors are predominantly preferred in the textiles, and the yarns are dyed using natural and aniline dyes.

Composition Patterns: The designs follow five distinct composition patterns: horizontal, vertical, scattered, central, and mihrap-shaped.

^{Karacakılavuz Dimi Weaving} (Anadolu Agency)

Patterns: The motifs resemble those found in textiles from various regions of Anatolia, with differences primarily in naming. Twelve local primary motifs are woven into Karacakılavuz dimi weaving: Dog’s paw, Ram’s horn, Sheep’s eye, Snowflakes, Oak branch, Peacock, Keys, Three roses, Quince core, Horse hoof, Stars, and Lanterns. These motifs are embroidered onto the dimi weave using the cicim technique.

Product Variety: The textiles are used for various purposes including amulets, prayer rugs, curtains, cushion covers, sacks, bags, and garments. Additionally, products such as kilims, wall decorations, and wall panels can also be produced.

Production Method: Yarns are first transformed from hanks into balls using a spindle called gülcana or elemye. A warp of 740 threads is prepared with a specified width of 65 cm and corresponding length. The threads are passed through the four-shaft loom and reed in pairs. Finally, the warp is secured onto the loom to begin the weaving process.

Special Tools: Special tools used in production include a wool comb, spindle, elemye (gülcan), shuttle, and bobbin. The weaving loom is called “düzen” and consists of parts such as balance legs, marmar, power shaft, tefe, and gericek.

^{Karacakılavuz Dimi Weaving} (Anadolu Agency)

The conformity of Karacakılavuz dimi weaving with traditional motifs and the dimi technique, as well as the use of the geographical indication label, is monitored by an official body. This monitoring body is coordinated by the Tekirdağ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism and includes representatives from the relevant university, the People’s Education Center, and cooperatives. Monitoring is conducted at least once annually and whenever a complaint is received.