Sinop Kotrası

Sinop kotrası is a traditional ship model handmade in Sinop province, Türkiye, and entirely constructed from wood. Its production began in the 1950s within the Sinop Prison and gradually spread throughout the provincial center, becoming one of Sinop’s cultural symbols. The Sinop Kotrası received geographical indication registration with a certification mark on 2 December 2021.

History and Expansion Process

The origin of the Sinop Kotrası dates back to the 1950s when two prisoners in Sinop Prison initiated this craft. After their release, these prisoners remained in Sinop and continued practicing the art of boat modeling they had learned. Over time, they taught their apprentices the technique of making kotras, and the craft spread across Sinop, especially in the provincial center. Initially, kotras were offered as souvenirs to visitors arriving on passenger ferries at Sinop Harbor; as their reputation grew, they began to be sent beyond the region.

Production Features and Technical Details

The Sinop Kotrası is produced using specific materials and traditional manufacturing techniques. All components of the model are made from wood and require manual craftsmanship.

Materials Used

• Sails: Solid walnut wood
• Hull: Oak wood
• Masts: Oak wood
• Cabins: Dogwood wood
• Rigging: Fishing line and nylon thread
• Additional Materials: Fish-eye rings for portholes, copper wire, small bulbs, plywood lifebuoys

Production Method

Primary tools used in Sinop Kotrası production:

• Circular saw
• Hand saw
• Scroll saw
• Planers
• Hand drills
• Sandpaper
• Wood pencils
• Hammers

Sail Making

Sails are made from walnut wood. The wood is first cut into paper-thin sheets and planed by hand to a thickness of 2–2.5 mm. After sanding, the sails are cut into triangular shapes from the diagonal corners. Shaping the sails is achieved by heating them over a spirit flame and slowly bending them; this process is called “tor vermek.” If the wood resists bending, it is pre-moistened. In the final stage, the sails are immersed in filler varnish to protect them and then dried.

Mast and Yardarm Construction

Masts are made from oak wood. The lower portion of the mast is left thicker. A horizontal piece called the “seren” is also prepared. A notch is carved slightly above the middle of the mast to accommodate the “gurcata,” a small cap-like fitting.

Cabins and Portholes

Cabins are crafted from dogwood wood. Window openings are cut using a scroll saw. Fish-eye rings, commonly used in footwear, are installed as portholes. Small bulbs can be placed inside the cabins to provide illumination.

Base and Assembly

The base board on which the kotras is mounted is designed to match the model’s length and is typically longer than the hull. During assembly:

• The hull is placed on the base board.
• Cabins are mounted.
• Masts and sails are attached.
• Holes are drilled to thread the rigging lines.
• Fore sails (floklar) are added.
• Anchor motifs and optional inscriptions are added to the hull.
• Lifebuoys are glued in place.
• A flag may be placed at the rear.

Geographical Boundaries of Production

The Sinop Kotrası is produced exclusively within the boundaries of Sinop province. All stages of production occur within this geographical region, as stipulated in its geographical indication registration.

Supervision Process

Supervision is conducted at least once a year by a monitoring body composed of representatives from the Sinop Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Sinop Guilds and Artisans Chamber, under the coordination of the Sinop Municipality. The appropriateness of materials used, compliance with production methods, and the correct use of the “Sinop Kotrası” logo and certification mark are verified.

Usage Format

The “Sinop Kotrası” logo and certification mark must appear on the product itself or its packaging. If it cannot be placed directly on the product, it must be displayed in a clearly visible location within the production facility.