Where should I place a runner?

These narrow formats suit hallways, landings and corridors where foot traffic benefits from a soft, insulating floor covering. They also anchor long gallery spaces or kitchen islands effectively. Ensure you measure the clear floor space carefully, leaving an even border of exposed wood or tile around the perimeter of the carpet.

How do I clean a wool rug?

Gentle surface brushing and regular vacuuming without a rotating power head remove grit from the pile before it damages the foundation threads. Professional specialist cleaning remains essential for deep restoration. Avoid harsh chemical detergents and excessive moisture, which can destabilise natural dyes and weaken hand-spun wool fibres.

Are older rugs durable enough for daily use?

Hand-knotted examples from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries were constructed for generations of domestic service using sturdy local wool. Their robust knotting handles normal hallway walking comfortably. Using a quality underlay beneath the piece prevents slipping and cushions the foundation against hard subfloors.

How can I tell regional styles apart?

Districts such as Heriz employ bold geometric medallions and strong architectural framing, whereas Kurdish and Baluch tribal pieces feature repeating guls and intricate lattice work. Analysing the palette and border motifs clarifies the origin. Examining the flexibility of the foundation and the materials used in the warp and weft provides further clues to the specific weaving community.