How do I choose the right length?

Measure your corridor carefully, leaving a consistent margin of exposed wooden flooring or stone around the perimeter of the textile. Long runners serve grand landings and extensive hallways, while shorter formats suit compact entrance passages. Consider door clearances at both ends of the hall to ensure the thickness of the wool pile allows doors to open freely without catching the edge.

Are these suitable for heavy foot traffic?

Hand-knotted wool textiles on cotton or wool foundations were originally built for daily domestic use in busy homes. Their dense construction absorbs heavy footsteps while protecting underlying floorboards. Place a suitable rug underlay beneath the piece to prevent slipping and reduce friction between the backing and the floor.

How do I care for an antique runner?

Vacuum the surface gently using suction only, avoiding rotating brush attachments that can pull at the wool pile. Clean spills promptly with a dry cloth without rubbing the fibres. Rotate the textile periodically to ensure even wear across the length when exposed to directional sunlight or concentrated foot traffic.

How can I tell different regional styles apart?

Regional types are distinguished by their specific colour palettes, knotting structures and recurring motifs. Caucasian designs tend towards sharp geometry and strong primary colours, while Persian village pieces often incorporate flowing florals and medallion layouts. Anatolian examples frequently showcase bold tribal field patterns executed in rich madder reds and deep blues.