Families preserve textile traditions in Zakho

BERSIVE, Kurdistan Region — Christian families in Zakho are preserving the age-old tradition of making fabric for Kurdish clothes.

The families make textiles for traditional Kurdish costume, which can range from $800-$1,600. 

 It is made from the soft fur of Maraza goats, a sub-breed of wild Bezoar ibexes.

 Making the fabric is a long process with several steps. 

"After we wash, comb, and spin the fur, we turn it into threads. Later, we turn it into yarn... the work is usually carried out at home. Both men and women do it.  We're satisfied with our work," said Odisho Gorgis, who has been making the fabric since he was a child. 

"We don't have any other job. It's a traditional craft," he added. 

Abdulrazaq, a tailor from Erbil, says the textiles from Zakho are the nicest.

Kurdish clothes are in high demand, especially in spring, when Newroz, or the Kurdish New Year, is celebrated.

Video produced by Barzan Mohammed 

Translation and video editing by Sarkawt Mohammed