About Us
Gilem is a women's initiative production and business cooperative established in Dilovası, Kocaeli in 2021.
Under the leadership of our founding president, Elif Özhuy, the cooperative was established to unite the productive power of women, both to preserve our traditional handicrafts and to contribute to female employment. Our president's desire to share the working principles behind her long-standing success in business, and her desire to make the heritage of traditional handicrafts and our ancient culture, which she has always focused on, more sustainable, marked the first milestone in this regard with the establishment of our cooperative.
Inspired by Anatolian culture, 18 female members in our cooperative produce flat-woven Turkish rugs, hereke carpet weavings, needlework, crochet, woodblock printing, clothing and home accessories.
Each product is a work of art shaped by hand. The signatures of these works of art belong to our female members.
Our Brand Story
The name "Gilem" comes from the Old Turkish word meaning "rug" or "carpet," originating in Central Asia. We wanted to unite the stories of the women who have weaved the Hereke Carpet in Dilovası for years under the umbrella of Gilem. We wanted these weavings to endure, and for our ancient heritage to continue to be the protagonists in this story written by our women.
The Power of Naturalness: Root Dye and Certified Production
All yarns used in our products are obtained from NODS certified root dyed wool.
In this way, we carry out a completely natural production process that is friendly to both nature and human health.
Our root dyes are prepared from the ancient plant colors of Anatolia, and each color carries its own story of nature. This approach shows that Gilem carries not only a cultural but also an ecological responsibility.
The inspiration for our logo comes from the motif on the Pazyryk Carpet, which is considered the oldest carpet in the world. Although the flower in the motif was known as the "Hun Rose" in history, it is actually a type of tulip that grows in the Caucasus.
Gilem brings together the deep-rooted handicrafts of Anatolia with today's aesthetic understanding. Each piece,
It is a bridge built between the past and the future.
Our vision
To be a pioneering brand that makes women's labor visible, keeps Anatolian culture alive and introduces handicrafts to the world.
Our Mission
Empowering women producers
Preserving our cultural heritage and reinterpreting it with contemporary designs
Representing local values in the global market.
Our values
Respect for Labor – Every stitch is a woman's sweat. The concept of low-quality, meaningful production. Slow production supports environmental sustainability by focusing on the quality and meaning of production. This approach prioritizes handcrafting and local resources, fostering social benefit.
and promotes cultural continuity.
Solidarity – We produce together, we grow together.
Fair Earnings – Ensuring that women receive fair compensation for their work.
Sustainability – Production that respects nature, culture and people.
Cultural Memory – Carrying the past into the future in every motif.
Quality Guarantee
At Gilem, we believe that every product we produce is not just a piece of furniture; it's also a reflection of Anatolian culture and the value of handcrafted craftsmanship. Therefore, our commitment to quality is meticulously maintained at every stage of production.
🌿 Natural and Durable Materials
We prioritize naturalness in all our products. Every material, from the threads to the fabrics, is carefully selected. Durability and longevity are essential quality criteria.
🧵 Mastery of Handicraft
Each of our products is woven by the skilled hands of our women's cooperatives. Every detail, from the motifs to the stitching, embodies the unparalleled quality of handmade craftsmanship.
🔍 Detailed Control Process
Every product leaving production is meticulously inspected by our quality control team. From stitching and pattern matching to materials and packaging, meticulous inspections are carried out at every stage.
♻️ Sustainable and Reliable
Quality isn't just about product durability; it's also about our respect for nature. That's why we use recyclable packaging and embrace sustainable production.
🤝 100% Customer Satisfaction
Our customers' trust is our most valuable asset. That's why we offer a satisfaction guarantee. It's our responsibility to find solutions if you experience any issues.