The Production of Rize Fabric (Feretiko) as a Traditional Handicraft and Touristic Product

Rize fabric, one of the traditional handicrafts in Anatolia, also known as feretiko, is well-known for its texture of being woven from hemp fibers, its slimness and durability, absorbance of sweat more in comparison to other fabrics and quick drying features. It makes human body feel dry and fresh in warm and humid weather with these characteristics. Being weaved in the handlooms of women in the Ottoman Empire since the 16. Century, this fabric was sent to a wide range of realms, particularly Anatolia, Egypt and the Balkans and also used in the attires of the Ottoman sultans. Handicrafts’ inability to compete with the products of manufacture as a result of the industrial revolution was also seen in feretiko and the production of this handicraft was significantly declined in early 20 Century. Hemp cultivation was greatly reduced due to the start of tea cultivation after the 1930s and its proliferation in the 1960s in Rize province and the production of Rize fabric came to a finishing point. This handicraft, which fell into oblivion, began to gain importance through works conducted after 2003. The continuation of Feretiko production is important for keeping the cultural heritage alive and passing it on to future generations. Being a remarkable touristic product for the region at the same time, this craft has a great potential in the promotion of tourism in the province.