Jan (pronounced John), the carpet master led us on an excellent tour of his facility. We saw a number of different types of carpets being woven, saw how they process the cocoons, and then had Raki or tea and snacks while being shown dozens of fabulous carpets and learning more about the difference between them. We learned that the Turkish government realized that the weaving process was being lost and diluted, so they set up weaving schools. Young women are given intensive instruction, after which they can work in a factory like Jan's (though It is not like any factory I've ever been to!), or they can weave at home. Either the employer or the government gives them the loom and the materials to make the carpets. They receive 40% of the proceeds, after costs. A good carpet can take over a year to weave. Only one woman works on each carpet from beginning to end. The women are only required to weave for four hours a day - it's intensive work!!!
Check out the video of the guy flipping the silk on silk carpet below - it changes colors depending on what way the light hits the fibers!
We also visited a local pottery cooperative. I was the volunteer to throw a pot - that's the first time I've done that since grade school - I think I might have a new hobby. I was really impressed that all the pottery in this co-op is hand painted. The designs are intricate and detailed. They also make glow in the dark painted items - unusual!
As a real treat, we had lunch with Fetiye and her mom. She and her mother prepared the meal for us in their family home and we sat on one of the carpets she had woven in her younger years while we ate. These delightful ladies spoke no English, so Taylan interpreted as we laughed and smiled and all enjoyed the delicious meal. Fetiye is about 60 and her mom is about 80.
Check out this link for more info: https://www.ricksteves.com/tours/greece-turkey/turkey