Turkish Craftsman Preserves the Art of Accordion-Style Bootmaking

Mustafa Karpuzcu, the last remaining 'accordion boot' master in Kusadasi, Turkey, is striving to keep this fading tradition alive. Having inherited the craft at age six, he emphasizes the importance of training successors. His dedication earned him the 'Living Human Treasure' award from Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Mon Jun 01 2026

A Generational Craft: The Legacy of Accordion-Style Bootmaking

Mustafa Karpuzcu is one of the last masters of accordion-style bootmaking in Kusadasi, an ancient coastal city in Türkiye's Aegean region of Aydin. He learned the craft from his father, Mehmet Karpuzcu, starting at the age of six. Karpuzcu grew up surrounded by leather, welts, and boots, stating that this craft is his everything. He expresses a strong desire for more craftsmen, journeymen, and apprentices to be trained to prevent the craft from disappearing.

'Living Human Treasure' Award and the Value of Tradition

Karpuzcu's son has also followed in his footsteps after graduating from university and has reached the level of a journeyman in the craft. Karpuzcu is proud of his son, believing he will soon become a master. He learned every aspect of the craft from his father and recalls that Kusadasi had a population of only around 3,000 during his childhood. Back then, accordion-style boots were worn by landowners, noblemen, and the wealthy. These boots were specially made to creak when the wearer walked, a feature known as 'gicirdakli.' Karpuzcu, who mastered the craft through years of patience, discipline, and silent learning, even draws designs in his dreams.

Awarded 'Living Human Treasure' by the President

After dedicating decades to preserving this tradition, Mustafa Karpuzcu received the 'Living Human Treasure' award from Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Receiving the award from the President was a great honour. President Erdogan even joked with Karpuzcu, saying, "You came without wearing your boots." Karpuzcu cherishes this award as a source of pride and emphasizes that young people should study and pursue education, but also have a craft or skill like his in their hands, calling it a valuable asset for life.

*Source: YouTube: TRT World (2026-06-01)*

Tags: #Turkey #craft #bootmaking #master craftsman #cultural heritage