Where should I place a runner in my home?

Narrow floor coverings suit high-traffic thoroughfares such as hallways, corridors, and galley kitchens where linear formats balance empty floor space. Their durable wool and flat foundation allow them to sit comfortably beneath interior doors. Placing these textiles in transitional spaces also protects vulnerable floorboards while introducing rich texture and earthy tones to otherwise neglected zones of the house.

How do I care for antique wool runners?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush roll prevents dust and grit from settling deep into the wool pile. Professional cleaning tailored for antique textiles ensures natural lanolin remains intact within the fibres. Rotating the piece every few months balances exposure to foot traffic and sunlight, preserving the natural dyes and structural integrity for years to come.

Are these runners made with natural dyes?

Nineteenth and early twentieth-century tribal pieces predominantly utilise natural dye sources derived from local plants, roots, and minerals. These organic colourants produce subtle variations and tonal shifts across the wool pile. Over decades, these natural pigments soften gracefully, developing a rich patina that synthetic dyes fail to replicate.

What is the difference between Kurdish and Baluch runners?

Kurdish weavings from north-west Persia generally feature heavier wool structures, bolder geometric layouts, and structural formats designed for sustained domestic utility. Their colour palette often incorporates crisp contrast against dark wool grounds. Baluch pieces from the eastern borders tend toward smaller formats, deeply saturated dark brown or indigo fields, and intricate prayer designs or repeated shrub motifs.