With so many types of rugs available in the market today, it can be overwhelming to choose one that will really suit your home. From area oriental rugs, tribal rugs, to antique rugs, it is a fact that most rugs available today are beautiful, functional, and practical in their own ways. However, it is also a good thing that you are familiar with each type of rug, its materials, and how it can benefit your home.
Another popular type of rugs being used in many homes today is kilim rugs. First of all, you need to understand what this type of rug is all about, and what the differences between kilim and traditional rugs are. We all know that most rugs are being used as floor coverings, but kilim rugs can also be used as sofa covers, wall décor, and more.
All about kilim rugs
Kilim rugs are not the usual rugs you would see on most homes. Although some Western households have this kind of rug, it is a lot more common in the Middle East, Central Asia, and other Asian countries. In particular, the word kilim comes from a Turkish word that means “pileless textile”.
Kilim rugs are usually made from countries such as in Turkey, China, Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, as well as in parts of Central Asia and Northern Africa. Since it is generally produced from the other side of the world, we can safely say that kilim rugs are considered area oriental rugs. However, kilim rugs are technically their own rug category.
Kilim carpets and rugs are usually made from cotton and wool, but other materials are used depending on the availability. Such kinds of carpets or rugs are also known for their colorful and intricate patterns, unlike the usual traditional rugs. Not only kilim rugs are used as a floor covering but also for other purposes such as wall décor, saddles, pillow covers, or bench covers.
Common kilim rug materials
As mentioned earlier, kilim rugs are made from cotton and wool although most of them are made from the latter. Wool is known for its multiple benefits: it is durable, easy to use when sewn, and soft to the touch. It can also easily be dyed and easily available in areas where kilim rugs are made (particularly the merino and fat-tailed sheep breeds).
Meanwhile, cotton is also used to make kilim as it is more abundant in supply as well. It is also easy to use when made into rugs. In some cases, other materials are also used to make kilim rugs such as camel, goat, or horsehair. Silk is also used, although rarely, but can also produce the best quality and durable kilim rugs in the world.
How kilim vs traditional rugs are made
As mentioned, kilim rugs are basically pileless types of rugs. These types of rugs are usually lightweight yet very much eye-catching. Unlike traditional rugs or carpets, kilim rugs are flat-woven by hand. It is done by flat weaving two sets of ropes made from wool, of which one wool rope is set horizontally while the other one is placed vertically.
The horizontal ropes will then be passed through the vertically-aligned ropes and then passed on the same pattern repeatedly. Weavers use a beating comb and a loom to create such superb masterpieces that are kilim rugs. In some cases, the weavers add silk threads or beads to enhance its already-eye-catching details.
Meanwhile, traditional rugs are made from different materials such as nylon, polyester, or cotton although some use wool as well. Most traditional rugs are cheaper than kilim rugs due to the materials used which are way cheaper than wool. Traditional rugs are used mainly as flooring, unlike kilim rugs that can be hung on walls or used for other purposes.
Find the best rugs near you
With so many kinds of rugs available, it can be challenging to find one that will suit your personal taste and needs. There are also rugs on sale whether online or in rug stores nearby that you can also check out. In choosing rugs or carpet, you should go only to trusted rug stores in Alexandria. Visit one today and choose from a wide variety of rugs and carpets that will suit your budget, personal taste, and home improvement needs.
