Moroccan rugs are known for their beauty and versatility. With their designs, colors, and soft texture, they can add a touch of warmth to any room.
But with so many different Moroccan rugs on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Moroccan rugs, helping you choose the perfect rug for your needs and budget.
In this article :
- How do I identify a Moroccan rug?
- What are the different materials used to make moroccan rugs ?
- Mistakes to avoid while buying a moroccan rug
- Where can I buy Moroccan rugs?
- How do I care for a Moroccan rug?
How do I identify a Moroccan rug?
To identify a Moroccan rug, you can follow these guidelines:
Material
Authentic Moroccan rugs are made from 100% sheep wool, with some cotton threads, or other materials like silk, goat hair, leather, palm reeds, camel hair, and old clothing, depending on the region and availability of materials
Softness
The wool in authentic Moroccan rugs is the softest part of animal hair, while the hair is the coarser wool strands. The highest quality rugs made of true wool will feel very soft
Sheen
Rugs made in urban areas of Morocco tend to be more refined, with symmetrical patterns, one or more central medallions, and floral motifs. They are also less shaggy with a higher knot count
Origin
Genuine Morocco rugs are of high quality and one-of-a-kind, taking several weeks to months to craft. They are not mass-produced and have a higher value that increases over time
Back of the rug
Turn the rug over and inspect the back. The knots on the back of a machine-made (fake) Moroccan rug will have neat, perfectly shaped knots, while authentic rugs will have irregular knots
Fringing
Authentic Moroccan rugs often have a fringe on the back, which is an important characteristic to look for
Price
Authentic Moroccan rugs are not cheap, as they are handmade and made from high-quality materials. If the price seems too good to be true, it may be a fake.
By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of identifying an authentic Moroccan rug and avoiding fake or low-quality imitations.
What are the different materials used to make Moroccan rugs ?
Moroccan rugs are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. The most common material is sheep's wool, which is known for its softness, durability, and natural insulation properties. Wool is sourced from the sheep raised in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, and it is the primary material used in many popular Moroccan rug styles, such as Beni Ourain and Azilal rugs.
Cotton is another common material used in Moroccan rugs. It is often used as a base for the wool and silk fibers to be woven into, providing a sturdy foundation for the rug. Cotton can also be used in some rug designs to create a contrasting texture or pattern. For example, Boujad rugs often feature geometric designs made from both wool and cotton, creating a unique and eye-catching look.
Mistakes to avoid while buying a moroccan rug
When buying a Moroccan rug, there are several mistakes to avoid:
Not considering the size of the rug
Choose a rug that is appropriate for the room's dimensions to avoid making the space feel disjointed.
Not considering the room's style
Ensure that the rug's design and color scheme complement the existing decor in the room.
Choosing a low-quality rug
Authentic Moroccan rugs are made from high-quality materials like wool, cotton, or a combination of both. Avoid rugs made from synthetic materials or those with poor quality control.
Not knowing what you want
Before shopping for a rug, have a clear idea of the style, color, and size you're looking for to avoid getting overwhelmed by the available options.
Not inspecting the rug
Turn the rug over and inspect the back to ensure it's handmade and not machine-made. Machine-made rugs have neat, perfectly shaped knots, while authentic rugs have irregular knots.
Not asking about the rug's origin
Genuine Moroccan rugs are one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces that increase in value over time. Be sure to ask about the rug's origin and history to ensure its authenticity
Where can I buy Moroccan rugs?
There are several places where you can buy Moroccan rugs, both online and in-person:
- Etsy: This global marketplace offers a wide range of Moroccan rugs, including vintage, handmade, and one-of-a-kind pieces
- Tigmee interiors : specialized in handcrafted Moroccan rugs made from natural wool. We offer free worldwide shipping and a 15 euro voucher with the promo code TIG155
- Poppy Bling: This website provides tips and tricks for buying rugs in Morocco, including where to find the best shops and how to identify authentic Moroccan rugs
- MarocMama: This website provides tips for buying Moroccan rugs in Marrakech, including bargaining tips and where to find the best shops
When shopping for Moroccan rugs, it's essential to consider factors such as size, color, quality, and price. Don't forget to bargain for the rug, as it's a common practice in Morocco to negotiate the price
How do I care for a Moroccan rug?
To care for a Moroccan rug, follow these guidelines:
Vacuum regularly
Vacuuming your rug regularly helps remove dirt and excess fuzz from the surface, be sure to vacuum the back side of the rug as well.
Spot cleaning
For spot cleaning, mix warm water, wool-safe detergent, and white
vinegar.
Sunlight and fresh air
Moroccan rugs love sunshine and fresh air. Airing your rug outside in the sun can help prevent humidity and odors from forming.
Remember to always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the rug before applying it to the entire rug to ensure it doesn't damage the fibers or dyes
I hope this article was helpful!