Where should I place a narrow runner?

These carpets suit corridors, long hallways, entryways, and narrow landing spaces where standard rectangular rugs fail to fit. Their elongated proportions guide movement down a passage while protecting wooden or tiled flooring. Ensure you measure the clear floor space between skirting boards carefully before selecting a length. Leaving a uniform border of exposed floor on either side enhances the visual balance of the hallway.

How do I care for an old wool runner?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush roll prevents dust accumulation within the wool pile. Professional cleaning suited for antique textiles preserves the natural lanolin and dyes. Using an appropriate underlay beneath the carpet prevents slipping on hard floors and reduces friction against the foundation yarns. Rotating the placement periodically evens out foot traffic wear across the length.

What materials make up these carpets?

The surface pile consists primarily of sheep wool, occasionally supplemented with camel hair for natural tonal variation. Foundation warps and wefts are generally formed from sturdy cotton or wool threads. Natural dyes derived from plants and minerals provide the stable red, blue, and earthy palettes. These traditional materials contribute to the longevity and structural resilience of the runners.

How do I identify different regional styles?

Regional types often reveal themselves through distinct palette choices, border arrangements, and repeating geometric or floral motifs. Kurdish and Hamadan pieces frequently display robust tribal patterns, whereas Sarouk runners show finer village artistry. Comparing the knot density, stiffness of the foundation, and structural proportions aids in distinguishing between various origins. Each workshop tradition utilised specific design vocabularies passed down through local weavers.