Where should I place a runner?

Runners suit narrow spaces such as hallways, corridors, and entryways where linear floor coverage protects high-traffic flooring. They also function well alongside kitchen islands or beside beds in larger bedrooms. Ensure you measure the corridor width and length carefully, leaving a uniform margin of exposed floorboards or stone around the perimeter for a balanced visual frame.

How do I care for a wool runner?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating beater bar prevents dust and grit from settling deep into the wool pile. Rotate the runner periodically to distribute foot traffic evenly across the length. Address spills immediately by blotting with a clean cloth rather than rubbing, and consult a specialist in antique textiles for professional cleaning when necessary.

What is the difference between pile and flatweave?

Pile rugs feature knotted wool fibres that stand upright to create a soft, textured surface underfoot. They offer warmth and substantial cushioning in domestic settings. Flatweaves, such as kilims and tapestries, contain no pile and consist entirely of interwoven warp and weft threads. They lie flatter on the floor and display sharp, graphic geometric patterns.

How do I identify a tribal design?

Tribal designs typically exhibit geometric motifs, stylized animals, repeating medallions, and abrash colour variations woven from memory by nomadic or village artisans. These patterns reflect local cultural symbols rather than formal court designs. Regions like the Caucasus, Kurdistan, and Fars province developed distinct tribal vocabularies using characteristic palettes and structural quirks that distinguish them from city-made carpets.