How do I place a runner in a hallway?

Measure the corridor width carefully, leaving a consistent margin of exposed floorboards or stone around the edges. Position the runner centrally to guide movement through the space while protecting high-traffic flooring. Ensure doorways swing clear of the pile height by checking the thickness of the wool and foundation before final placement.

What is the difference between tribal and city rugs?

Tribal rugs typically display geometric patterns, asymmetric layouts, and thicker, hand-spun wool reflecting nomadic or village production. City carpets often exhibit refined floral scrolls, symmetrical medallions, and finer knot counts produced in established workshops. Both traditions utilise wool, but the artistic intent and structural precision vary according to the origin of the weaving.

How do I clean an old wool runner?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a beater bar removes surface grit from the wool pile. Professional specialist cleaning remains essential for deep washing to protect natural dyes and fragile foundations. Avoid soaking or chemical spot treatments, which can damage the wool fibres and alter historical colour tones.

How can I tell the age of a rug?

Age assessment involves examining dye palettes, material preparation, and structural wear patterns across the wool and cotton foundations. Pieces from the Victorian era and early twentieth century often show specific regional colour combinations and hand-spun textures that distinguish them from later reproductions. Comparing knot styles and motifs against established regional archives helps narrow down the decade of production.