At MAKÜ, from tradition to the future: Kabak kemane is now being produced with a 3D printer

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) has signed another remarkable project that brings together traditional handicrafts with modern technology. MAKÜ Faculty of Engineering and Architecture student Ali Sulmaz, under the guidance of his advisor Dr. Lecturer Lokman Yünlü, succeeded in producing the regional symbol, the gourd violin, using 3D printer technology.

The gourd violin, produced using wood powder-added biofilament material, contributes not only to the preservation of cultural heritage but also to an environmentally friendly production approach. Supported by MAKÜ's “From universal knowledge to societal contribution” vision, the project allows young engineers to embrace cultural values through technology.

Ali Sulmaz, who stated that his personal interest inspired the project, said, “I researched the production process of the gourd violin and realized the idea of producing this traditional instrument with 3D printing technology.”

In the study conducted within the scope of TÜBİTAK 2209-A Student Research Projects, three different models were produced with wood-containing filaments to capture the sound closest to the natural tone of the instrument. These models were thoroughly tested and evaluated by MAKÜ Turkish Music State Conservatory academics.

Culture and technology meet through interdisciplinary collaboration

Not only a technical innovation but also a strong example of interdisciplinary collaboration, the project brought together the fields of engineering and music with a common goal. Advisor academician Dr. Lecturer Lokman Yünlü stated that the project was not limited to the gourd violin, and other local instruments specific to the Teke Region, such as cura and sipsi, were also produced with 3D printers.

Yünlü said, “The traditional production process can take weeks. With 3D printers, it is possible to produce usable instruments within a few hours. This method not only preserves natural materials but also offers personalized and rapid production opportunities.”

Performance and sound quality exceeded expectations

MAKÜ Turkish Music State Conservatory faculty member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kadri Yılmaz Erdal stated that the sound analyses of the instruments produced in the project were conducted in the university's sound recording studio and the results obtained were quite close to the natural versions. These findings also strengthen the scientific aspect of the study.

As part of the project's promotion, master sipsi artist Mehmet Bedel, honored with the title ‘Living Human Treasure’ by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and receiving his award from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, also attended the event. Bedel evaluated the performances by playing the produced gourd violins and said, “The result has exceeded my expectations, I congratulate our young people.”

This success of the MAKÜ student draws attention as an exemplary success story where cultural heritage is blended with technology, and young people are raised with a sense of social responsibility, going beyond just being a graduation project.