Kobani craftsman turns scrap iron into miniature machines
In the city of Kobani, northern Syria, Rashad Mohammed displays his miniature models of vehicles and aircraft made of scrap iron and metal parts in his workshop – North Press
KOBANI, Syria (North Press) – In the industrial district of Kobani, northern Syria, 42-year-old craftsman Rashad Mohammed transforms discarded metal into intricate miniature models of vehicles and machinery, blending the toughness of blacksmithing with the creativity of art.
Amid the clamor of workshops repairing heavy equipment, Mohammed’s small shop stands out as an imaginative studio where iron scraps are reborn as model tractors, motorcycles, drilling rigs, and even airplanes with finely detailed wings.
“When I was young, I loved blacksmithing,” Mohammed told North Press. “I asked my father to open a shop for me so I could work in blacksmithing and turning and learn this profession.” His fascination with machinery began in childhood, watching tractors and drilling rigs in the countryside around Kobani.
Over time, he learned to repair large machines, but in his spare hours began crafting miniature versions. To date, he has built around 40 models, each taking between 15 and 20 days to complete. The process involves welding, grinding, turning, and cutting metal, often relying on a generator during power outages.
“These models are costly and take a lot of work, but this is my passion,” he said.
Mohammed refuses to sell his creations, keeping them at home for his children to play with and for guests to admire. He decorates his models with the flags of Kurdistan and “Rojava,” symbols of identity and pride.
He recalls a humorous incident when a customer mistook a photo of one of his miniature drilling rigs for a full-sized machine, only realizing the error after seeing it in person.
“I still dream of building more models, like a harvester, a loader, and an earth-drilling machine,” he said.