There are several handmade products you can find in North Cyprus, we introduce some of North Cyprus handcrafts here.
Table of contents
Lefkara Lace
The handmade Lefkara Lace is a characteristic embroidery art of the island, dating back to at least the fifteenth century. The lace was inspired by the Venetians during their occupation of Cyprus. Local women copied the fine embroidery from the clothing of the Venetian ruling class, with their own designs becoming increasingly high-standard as dowries became increasingly valuable.
Known as Cyprus Lefkara Lace, it is made of linen with thread and is decorated by different cutting techniques and shapes. Embroidered linens such as tablecloths and napkins are uniquely characterized by hemstitching, satin stitch filling, and needlepoint edging in white, brown, and ecru colors. Also distinguishing North Cyprus lace is that pieces have the same front and back. Only lace made in this traditional way is considered authentic.
The skilled art is recognised on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage List. Today, you can still see this ancient craft being made on doorsteps in remote villages across the island and it can be purchased in many places, but the best lacework can be found in the Buyuk Han in Lefkosa.
Kilim Rugs
Handwoven rugs are truly work of art among North Cyprus handcrafts. Kilim weaving still can be found in small villages around the North Cyprus, specially Karpaz Peninsula.
Yemeni
Yemeni hand craft head scarfs were widely worn by Turkish Cypriots as a symbol of being rich. They were usually decorated with leaves, flowers and tree branches patterns.
Hesap Embroidery
An embroidery from NCY’s Lapithos region created using cross-stitch techniques applied to a linen cloth stretched taut around a wooden frame (called kasnak). The name “hesap” which means calculate is given to these works because while decorating them with different motifs, each strand is counted one by one.
Plant Knitting
Stems, leaves and twigs are used to create trays, baskets, jewellery boxes and even brooms. The materials are either used as they are found or cut into thin strips before being woven.
Silk Cocoon Decorations
The Karpaz Peninsula is home to a rich history of silkworm cultivation and silk cloth production. For centuries, mulberry trees flourished in the area, providing ample food for the hungry silkworms. Families would take the cocoons, spin out the thread, and weave them into fine silk cloths. These cloths were then cut into shapes and used for adorning clothing or for pictures. Unfortunately, this craft slowly diminished over the years. However, Cypriots still collect silkworm cocoons for decoration, a tradition which originates from the Karpaz Peninsula.
Straw Wicker Baskets
These hand made baskets can be found all over the island in many shops and local stores which offers North Cyprus handcrafts. The baskets are made from a special kind of straw, which can also be used to make bread baskets and caskets with lids. The weaver can make complex and beautiful patterns which takes a lot of practice and time to learn.
Pottery
For hundreds of years, inhabitants of North Cyprus created amazing potteries. The clay is locally known as “the ashes of volcanic eruptions” and is perfect for use in various products.
Sepeti
Sepeti or hand made cheese baskets are made from a special type of reed found in Güzelyurt and Kyrenia. Sepeti is used when making traditional cheese such as hellim (halloumi) or talar peyniri.
Date Palm Weaving
Date leaf weaving products are hard to find these days in North Cyprus handcrafts shops. Date leaves have been used to weave baskets, fans and sacks.
Don’t lose the chance to visit North Cyprus, if you like the sunny weather, amazing Mediterranean beaches, culture. You will enjoy the island as there are several things to do with you family in Cyprus.
We recommend the best luxury villas and best apartments for staying in North Cyprus either for a vacation or enjoy the benefits of living in North Cyprus, the heavenly island.
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