All about antique Kilim rugs

by Rohan Sinha Author

What are kilim rugs?

A Kilim rug is basically a specific subset of flat weave or plain weave rugs which do not have piles and have a different feel compared to other rugs.They require less labor and materials to produce because they have no piles andin addition to that, a flat weave rug is also more affordable compared to hand knotted rugs. Its practical uses include being lightweight and can be easily moved in and out of an area or stored away when not in use and on the other hand its unique texture feels relaxing on barefoot. As there are no piles which catch up dirt and dust maintenance is also not a problem and of course, there is no shedding. A flat weave rug is high quality because it is handmade.

Kilim rugs are very different from a pile rug as the design in the pile in made visible through the use of short strands of different yarns. These yarns are knotted onto the lengthwise warps and held by tightly pressing the crosswise wefts together. Whereas in Kilims a flat weave is created by interweaving both the warps and wefts to each other.

Kilim rugs pattern
The patterns used in antique Kilim rugs have straightforward designs and each design in the rugs symbolizes certain beliefs of their makers. The weavers engrave their own thoughts into these rugs and experts have found the relevance of the patterns with histories and prophecies made in the time of the Kilim's construction. Symbols were also used in order to suffice to one kind of meaning which the makers felt relevant for their family. Some of the examples include a protection from evil or good luck charms.

All the patterns formed are geometric because of the simplicity of their weaving technique and among them are the artworks of such symbols.

Why to go for kilim rugs or Turkish kilims?
Kilim rugs are a subject of great fascination and admiration because within their threads they carry the weight of history. The designs of Turkish kilims tell the stories of their weavers, and of traditions passed down from one generation to the next. Retaining structural integrity while creating these designs requires great skill and knowledge of different weaving techniques.

The most matter is to recognize a high quality kilim rug. So, while purchasing Turkish kilims check to see if it is handmade. Also look for what material has been used because generally, wool, silk, cotton wool and goat’s hair is used in a high quality rug. Look for natural dyes and ask questions to the seller regarding the design and region of the kilim rugs.
So, bring the aesthetic look to your interior with handmade kilim rugs.