What to Look for When Buying Moroccan Rugs
Moroccan rugs have been around for hundreds of years. Tapestry rugs are hand-woven in different regions of Morocco, and they often vary in style according to region. The art of weaving has been passed down from one generation to the next, and each artisan is unique in terms of weaving techniques and the inclusion of folklore and symbolism in their work. If you are interested in owning a Moroccan rug, you’ll want to evaluate its durability, weave and quality before buying.
There are two basic types of Moroccan rugs: urban and rural. The urban type tends to have a more sophisticated pattern influenced by trade with the Mediterranean. These rugs usually have a stiff backing and are made with cotton and wool yarn. You may see designs that include animals, flowers or decorative medallions woven in. The urban rug can usually be ordered in various sizes, colors and designs chosen by the buyer. On the other hand, the rural type is an expression of Moroccan tribal traditions. This type often comes from the Atlas Mountains or Marrakech, areas that haven’t had much influence from the Mediterranean. Rural rugs have intricate knotting or weaving on the back, rather than the backing you’ll find on urban rugs. Artisans choose the color, design and theme, so they generally cannot be custom-ordered.
Once you’ve found a reputable dealer of Moroccan rugs UK, you’re ready to start shopping. You want to make sure the rug you’re considering is hand-knotted because this indicates authenticity. The quality of the rug is also determined by how many knots per inch there are. The more knots per inch, the finer the weave. A standard-quality Moroccan rug has 20,000 knots per square meter. This is a looser weave, and the design is not as intricate. A high-quality Moroccan rug is made with higher-quality yarns and has 90,000 knots per square meter. The design of these rugs appears very crisp. If you want a rug with premium wool, you’ll want an extra-high-quality Moroccan rug featuring 160,000 knots per square meter. The designs on these rugs are very intricate.
Ask the seller about the material the rugs are made from. For the highest quality, always choose wool. For the softest type of wool, look for rugs made from wool sheared from a live sheep. The most popular type of Moroccan rugs is a wool-and-cotton blend; this is known to be a durable material that allows for many different types of designs. Be aware that authentic Moroccan carpets are usually not made with synthetic materials.
Find out from the seller what types of dyes were used for the rugs. Rural rugs are generally made with natural dyes, made with saffron, poppy flower and indigo plants. If you prefer a wider choice of colors, go for an urban rug, which often utilizes synthetic dyes. Synthetic dyes, though not as authentic, do retain their color longer than natural dyes.
To learn more about Moroccan Rugs, as well as other types of antique, vintage, and new rugs, visit Woven Online.
