Ali Karakaranfil preserves traditional tin plating craft in Tokat

Ali Karakaranfil, an 80-year-old craftsman in the Zile district of Tokat, has been practicing the traditional trade of tin plating for 70 years. Having started as an apprentice at the age of 10, Karakaranfil has dedicated his life to maintaining copperware using traditional methods.

Karakaranfil previously practiced his craft while serving at the Turkish Land Forces Academy, where he was even offered a permanent position, but he chose to return to his hometown to continue his family's legacy. Despite his age, he continues to work in his modest shop, heating copper vessels over flames to apply tin.

He expressed concern regarding the decline of the profession, noting that interest in the craft has diminished significantly over the years. He maintains that copperware remains a healthy option for cooking, such as for making tomato paste or frying meat, even as he observes that the trade is nearing extinction.