The 7th International Istanbul Textile Conference on Fabrics Touching Anatolia (BEZCE 2016), organized by Marmara University’s Faculty of Technology and Faculty of Fine Arts, centered on the theme “Fabrics Touching Anatolia.” The conference aimed to unite regional fabric weavers with academic institutions to exchange knowledge, share developments, and emphasize the cultural, social, and economic significance of local fabric production. Highlighting Anatolia’s rich and diverse textile heritage, the event explored the use of natural fibers such as cotton, wool, flax, hemp, mohair, and silk in traditional weaving practices. Through workshops, exhibitions, and scientific sessions, BEZCE 2016 examined the historical, artistic, and technical aspects of regional textiles — including their application in garment and product design, dyeing techniques, and archaeological findings — thereby fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and artisans to preserve and innovate within this cultural craft.