Where should I place a long runner?

These narrow textiles suit hallways, corridors, and bedside areas where length matters more than width. Their dense wool pile withstands frequent walking while adding historic pattern to transitional spaces. Ensure an appropriate underlay is used beneath the runner to prevent slip on hard flooring and to protect the hand-spun wool foundation from undue friction.

How do I clean an antique wool runner?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush lift prevents dust from settling into the wool pile. Professional specialist cleaning remains essential for addressing deeper soil. Avoid excessive water or chemical detergent, as traditional natural dyes can react poorly to harsh treatments and modern cleaning agents.

Are these rugs made from real wool?

The pieces listed utilise genuine sheep wool for the pile, often hand-spun to retain natural lanolin that contributes to durability and softness. Foundations frequently combine wool and cotton threads. Goat hair also appears occasionally in the construction, particularly for secure edge bindings on tribal weaving from Afghan and Persian regions.

How do I identify a tribal design?

Tribal designs feature geometric patterns, repeating octagons, mihrab arches, and stylized plant motifs rather than curved floral court designs. Weavers relied on memory and traditional motifs passed through communities. Variations in symmetry and spontaneous shifts in minor border colours often indicate nomadic or village production rather than factory manufacture.