Raife Baysal Keeps Traditional Hemp Rope Production Alive in Tire
At 66 years old, Raife Baysal, who has been producing hemp ropes at the spinning wheel since the age of 13 in Tire, is working to carry a centuries-old craft into the future.
Sixty-six-year-old Raife Baysal, who has been working at the rope-spinning wheel since the age of 13 in Tire, continues to keep alive a traditional craft used throughout many historical processes from the conquest of Istanbul to the War of Independence.
Production Process of the Centuries-Old Craft
Raw materials obtained from plant barks are beaten with sticks, passed through special combs, thinned, and then turned into ropes at the spinning wheel.
Importance in Historical Process
It is known that these ropes produced in Tire were used in 1453 during the conquest of Istanbul to haul ships from land to sea. It is also reported that during the War of Independence, they were utilized in airplane fuselages and wings, in white paper production, and in textiles.
Modern Designs and Souvenirs
Although the usage area of the hemp rope has narrowed with the increase in factory-made and imported products, production is adapted into souvenirs and decorative items such as bags and hats.
Effort to Transfer to Future Generations
Stating that young people show interest in the craft but find it difficult to choose it as a profession because it is laborious, Baysal strives to pass this cultural heritage on to new generations so that it does not die out.