The history of crochet and “hobby culture” in Turkey

Crochet in Turkey holds deep roots that intertwine creativity, culture, and community. Over generations, it has served as a symbol of cultural preservation , a source of economic opportunity, and a way for women to connect and collaborate.

In Turkey, as in many parts of the world, crochet is more than just a craft. Young girls are traditionally taught to weave, knit, and crochet by their mothers and grandmothers. This knowledge is passed down through generations, not only as a skill for creating beautiful, useful objects, but as a shared activity that fosters community, memory, and mentorship.

From an early age, girls become part of a lineage of makers. The act of crocheting becomes embedded in daily life. It is not just a domestic skill, but a form of expression and empowerment . Through crochet, women create practical items like blankets, sweaters, scarves, and baby goods, but also intricate handbags, decorative art, and heirloom-quality pieces that speak to their individuality and cultural pride.

As these women grow, so does their artistry. They learn new stitches, patterns, and methods from one another, often in communal gatherings. These traditions have evolved over decades but remain rooted in the idea that making something by hand is an act of love and purpose. Crochet in Turkey continues to thrive because it adapts, modernizes, and yet stays deeply connected to its roots.

Today, these traditions have expanded beyond family circles and neighborhood groups into broader communities. Handmade items are regularly sold in local pazars (open-air markets) or given as cherished gifts. These markets are vibrant hubs of creativity where women not only sell their work but also teach, learn, and inspire one another. 

In recent years, hobby culture in Turkey has blossomed in new and exciting ways. While the tradition of coming together to crochet remains, the reach of Turkish women makers has expanded, thanks to technology and social media.

Makers now connect across cities and countries, showcasing their work to audiences far beyond their local communities. Social platforms have become digital pazar stalls — places to sell, learn, and connect. This evolution has enabled women to transform a cultural practice into a thriving, often global, enterprise.

This hobby culture is not only a creative outlet but a serious business. Local yarn shops, craft supply stores, and fabric markets cater directly to women makers, offering high-quality yarns, kağıt (woven paper similar to raffia), raffia, and tools of every kind. These spaces are more than shops — they’re community centers, gathering spaces, and informal learning hubs.

Inside these spaces, you’ll find women exchanging patterns, testing new stitches, and helping each other troubleshoot difficult techniques. This culture of collaboration and innovation fuels the continued popularity of crochet in Turkey , giving women of all ages the confidence and support to build on their craft and even turn it into a source of income.

In fact, handmade pieces created by Turkish women are becoming increasingly valued in global markets. As more people prioritize ethically made, small-batch products, the work of these artisans gains recognition for its beauty, quality, and cultural authenticity.

Follow up on social media @shoppineandpalm to learn more about our bags and subscribe to our mailing list to be among the first notified of our small batch handmade drops.