Maraş File Embroidery

Maraş File Embroidery is a regional Turkish craft practiced widely in Kahramanmaraş and its districts, using a technique in which fabric is selectively unraveled and worked to produce a design that appears identical on both sides.

Product Profile and Geographical Indication Type

Maraş File Embroidery belongs to the category of handicraft products and specifically to the embroidery subcategory. It has been registered by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office as a “geographical indication.” A geographical indication is a mark that identifies a product as originating from a specific region, area, or country, where its distinctive quality, reputation, or other characteristics are essentially attributable to that origin. For this type of registration, it is sufficient that the entire production process or certain key stages take place within the defined geographical area. This confirms that the reputation and distinctive features of Maraş File Embroidery are strongly linked to the Kahramanmaraş region.

Maraş File Embroidery (

Product Definition and Distinctive Features

Maraş File Embroidery is an original technique based on the principle of unraveling fabric and working the exposed areas. This technique is unique to Maraş File Embroidery and is carried out in two stages: horizontal and vertical. The fact that both the reverse and front sides of the embroidery appear identical is one of its most distinctive features.

• Fabric Characteristics: Thin, silk-like fabrics are preferred. Mongol silk fabric is the most commonly used, with silk demor also employed.
• Thread and Needle Characteristics: Bright, strong, and not overly thick pure silk threads are used. Fine needles measuring 1.5 cm in length are preferred.
• Design Characteristics: Designs typically feature stylized flowers and leaves. Geometric patterns and floral compositions in vases are also common motifs.
• Technique Characteristics: The key distinguishing feature is the unraveling of the fabric to create the embroidery, which gives it a lace-like appearance.

Production Method

Maraş File Embroidery is entirely handcrafted, and the entire production process must take place in Kahramanmaraş. The production method consists of the following essential stages:

1. Fabric Unraveling: Threads of the fabric are carefully removed along the designated design or area to prepare the base for embroidery.
2. Maraş File Embroidery Water Technique: A basic lace-like structure is formed using the remaining threads or additional threads in the unraveled areas. This forms the primary foundation for the design.
3. Design Formation Using Maraş File Embroidery Lentil Lace Technique: On the established lace foundation, patterns are embroidered using various filling and contour techniques, primarily the lentil lace technique.
4. Edge Finishing (Rişliyö Technique): The edges of the embroidered piece are cleaned and decorated using the rişliyö (cutwork) technique to enhance durability and aesthetic appearance.
5. Silk Embellishment on Edges (Susma): A fine decorative border (susma), typically made with silk threads, is applied around or on top of the rişliyö-finished edges.
6. Antique Technique: The antique technique, which creates a lacy effect by pulling out certain threads and grouping the remaining ones, may be applied to certain sections or edges of the embroidery.
7. Ironing: The completed embroidery is finally pressed, usually from the reverse side and with the aid of a damp cloth, to achieve its final form.

Geographical Origin and Boundaries

The geographical boundary of Maraş File Embroidery is defined as Kahramanmaraş Province. This emphasizes that the production process and the unique techniques of this craft must be carried out by artisans within the administrative boundaries of Kahramanmaraş, rather than focusing solely on the sourcing of materials.

Registration Process and Details

The application for the geographical indication registration of Maraş File Embroidery was submitted by the Kahramanmaraş Metropolitan Municipality. The application, numbered C2016/024, was filed on 21 April 2016. Following the evaluation process, the product was officially registered on 10 April 2018 under registration number 341 as a “geographical indication.” The registrant’s address is recorded as İsmetpaşa Neighborhood, Azerbaycan Boulevard No: 25, Dulkadiroğlu / Kahramanmaraş.