Catherine Bayar

Samatya Istanbul, Turkey

Catherine Bayar

Samatya Istanbul, Turkey

A Californian textile/clothing designer and writer married to a Turkish Kurd specialist in vintage textiles.

Handcrafts workshop Bazaar Bayar in Istanbul’s Old City Samatya, trains and employs local women artisans to work in reviving and reinterpreting Turkish needlecrafts.

Bazaar Bayar is a gathering place for traveling crafting women to learn about Turkish culture though a hands-on experience with traditional and contemporary fiber arts, while offering a chance for actual exchange with Turkish women. Join us for a fiber arts trip to the Turkish Southeast, spring and fall.

Other adventures include Handmade Istanbul, a seasonal market for handcrafts and Istanbul Personal Shopper, a service to connect tourists and buyers with trusted local vendors.

  • Work
    • Owner Designer, Bazaar Bayar
  • Education
    • UCLA, FIDM