Carpet-weaving tradition of the Sındırgı region and carpet manis

The aim of this study is to document the weaving process of Yağcıbedir carpets, which have been crafted from past to present in the villages of Sındırgı district in Balıkesir, and to compile the mani verses (traditional Turkish folk poems) recited during this process. Additionally, the study seeks to analyze the oral cultural materials gathered during the carpet-weaving process within a compilation framework and identify the cultural codes specific to the region. Yağcıbedir carpets are a significant cultural heritage of Sındırgı district in Balıkesir. Today, traditional carpet weaving has been declining due to the rise of machine-made textiles. However, in Sındırgı, the tradition of weaving Yağcıbedir carpets persists through the establishment of weaving centers, local associations, municipal initiatives, and the efforts of the Yağcıbedir nomads. The multi-stage process of carpet weaving has also influenced oral culture. Throughout the weaving process, artisans recite various forms of anonymous folk literature, with mani verses holding the most prominent place. The reason for focusing on these verses in the thesis is to transcribe and preserve the orally transmitted manis from the region and compile existing ones from written sources. The recorded manis (collected with the consent of participants and adherence to ethical guidelines) are expected to ensure cultural continuity through audiovisual platforms. Another key focus of the research is transitioning the nearly vanishing carpet-related manis from oral to written culture, which may facilitate future studies and analyses using the compiled materials.