How do I clean an old wool rug?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating power brush removes loose dirt from the wool pile safely. Professional specialist cleaning remains necessary for deep washing to protect natural dyes and fibres. Avoid soaking antique textiles at home or using harsh chemical detergents. Addressing spills immediately with dry blotting prevents moisture from penetrating the foundation structure.

Are these carpets suitable for hallways?

Long runner formats and narrow village rugs fit naturally into hallways and corridors. Their durable wool construction handles everyday foot traffic effectively. Using a quality underlay beneath the carpet prevents slipping on hard floors. This simple addition also reduces friction and wear between the floorboards and the wool foundation.

How do I identify tribal designs?

Tribal designs typically rely on geometric motifs, stepped medallions, and stylized animals rather than formal court curves. Specific patterns often link directly to the weaving traditions of groups such as the Qashqai, Afshar, or Bakhtiar. Examining the border arrangements and secondary filler ornaments helps narrow down the regional origin. Colour combinations also provide strong clues regarding the specific tribe or village district.

Do natural dyes fade over time?

Natural dyes mellow softly with age, developing a rich patina rather than losing their fundamental character. Sunlight exposure can accelerate this softening process across exposed areas. Rotating the rug periodically ensures even exposure to ambient light within a room. This practice keeps the overall coloration balanced across the entire field.