Usage of Natural Dye Plants in Konya's Art of Felt Making

Abstract

The development of carpet and kilim weaving in Konya has been enabled for centuries by the region’s unique climate, geographical position, and livestock breeding traditions. The diversity and abundance of dye plants and insects has been an important influence on the formation of these arts. Stone, soil, minerals, molluscs, and insects were among some of the first raw materials utilized as natural dyes; however, awareness of the expansive potential for colors in plants has led this category of dyes to supercede all others. Plants can produce a palette of hundreds of different colors and shades for use in folk arts, including carpets, felts, and ceramics. Methods for deriving dyes from plants vary between regions, and techniques are kept as closely guarded secrets, transferred between the generations with a profound sense of confidentiality. In this study, the plant dyes and methods of application particular to felt art in Konya, were investigated. The experience of Keçeci (felt artist) Mehmet Girgiç concerning the use of natural dye plants konya's art of felt making was recorded.