What Are Kilim Rugs?
They are pile-less rugs that are generally flat in characteristic. Kilims are less costly and readily available as they are technically easier to create. These days, there has been a misconception that all oriental rugs are Kilim rugs. This is because their design looks the same at first glance. While most oriental rugs originate from the same regions where Kilims are usually woven, these two have their differences. Oriental rugs are a broad classification of rugs that are produced from the Balkan and Asian regions. Kilim rugs are just one of the many types of oriental rugs.
Kilim Motifs
Kilims represent decades of craftsmanship and culture. Some kilims are used as decorations while some are used for religious purposes such as prayer mats. Kilims come in different motifs and each has its own meaning and purpose. Motifs can be a fascinating element of these rugs. Some of the most notable motifs are:
Elibelinde
– this motif represents fertility and motherhood. It is usually symbolized by a female figure with its hands on its hips. Elibelinde is probably the most common motif used in Turkish kilims and Pakistani Rugs.
Tree Of Life
– the Tree of Life is one of the most popular symbols found in any craft. It symbolizes divinity and communication with God. This motif is usually found in such Tree Of Life Rugs.
Protection Symbols
– protection symbols are also used widely in Kilim rugs. Because of the tribal origins of these rugs, one can often find these kinds of symbols even in modern Kilims. Protection symbols usually take the form of crosses, eyes, amulets, and other various shapes. These symbols were highly regarded as they were believed to bring good luck and will drive away evil.
There are also motifs that are unique for each region like Pakistan, India, Turkey, Balkan, and other Asian countries.
As mentioned, Kilims represent the heritage and culture of the region where they are manufactured, and these are evident with the array of motifs and designs that you can find in these rugs.
Availability Of Kilims
The price and availability of Kilims are attributed to the types of fabric used in making Kilim rugs. The materials used to weave these rugs include cotton, silk, wool, and animal hair. Some are made with only one material, and some are also made with a combination of different fabric types. There are huge collections of Kilims available on the Internet, and many rug outlets also offer these rugs. However, due to the high demand, handmade Kilims of the highest quality are usually priced higher than other types of rugs. Kilims are a great starting point for rug collectors. They prize Kilims so much because they come in different colors and styles that will blend well with various design themes.
History Of Kilim Rugs
Kilims have been around for thousands of years now. Tracing the origins of these rugs is very hard. Experts believe that they are actually Turkish and they trace back to the 13th century. Initially, Kilims were made of animal skin and other organic materials. After weaving was discovered, the materials used in creating these rugs shifted to the materials that are used in handmade rugs today such as animal hair, wool, cotton, and other organic fibers. Kilim rugs are used to decorate the furniture, floors, walls, and doors of houses. They were primarily woven and used by nomads throughout Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. Later, Moroccan nomadic tribes as well as Persians started weaving the kilims. They are one of the most durable and high-quality rugs.
Techniques
Most vintage Kilim rugs are made using traditional weaving techniques, materials and tools. Most of the native artisans who produce these kinds of rugs use basic tools such as the loft, beating comb, and the shuttle. Antique looms made of wood and more modern complex metallic looms are used to make kilims. The main purpose of a loom is to hold the vertical strands or warps so that the horizontal strands or wefts are weaved easily. The loom has evolved from being a simple tool used to weave simple designs to a more sophisticated tool that allows artisans to make more sophisticated Kilim rugs. The purpose of beating combs is used to beat the fiber but most traditional weavers prefer to do this specific part of the weaving process by hand.
How Are Kilim Rugs Made?
Kilim area rugs are made using weaving techniques that have been used for thousands of years. One of the most popular techniques used in weaving a Kilim is the flatweave. The flatweave is further divided into more specific techniques such as:
Slit Weave
– The slit weave is the weaving technique that is commonly employed in creating Kilims. This is done by making the weft go around the last color of the warp. The slit weave is used to create smooth and reversible Kilims and is favored for weaving rugs with geometric patterns.
Plain Weave
– this weaving technique creates an even space between the warp and weft. Plain weave is the most basic technique when creating flat rugs.
Brocading
– brocading is a process of weaving that adds wefts for supplemental patterns and designs. This is done using the traditional weaving technique but the extra wefts that are added make a raised pattern that can be customized to any design.
Soumak Weave
– this is a weaving technique that uses mathematical patterns to create more complex designs. Since this technique employs the use of lots of time and incredible mastery in weaving, the "soumak weave" is also used in them.
Interweaving
– Kilim rugs are created using the interweaving technique which is the most common technique when it comes to no-pile rugs. The weft and warp strands are interweaved tightly in order to produce these rugs.
Presently, Kilim and Dhurrie rugs can be produced using machines. However, handmade rugs are still the best option for people looking to purchase interior décor that can last them for decades.
Differences Between Kilim Rugs And Traditional Rugs
Rugs are a serious investment. Not all rugs that you see on the shelves are created equally. If you are looking for Kilim rugs, you will want to know how they are different from traditional rugs. Knowing these differences will help you make a great buying decision. There are actually major differences between Kilim and Traditional rugs. One is the mentioned weaving technique that is used in creating Kilim rugs. Kilims are woven using the flatweave method and this makes them have a generally flat and thinner characteristic than traditional rugs.
Due to the flat nature of Kilims, they are mostly lightweight compared to the piled and knotted rugs. On the other hand, traditional rugs are extra soft because they have a pile that creates a raised surface. This makes the traditional rugs heavier and thicker than Kilims.
Things To Know When Buying A Kilim Rug
There are a couple of things that you need to take note of when you are considering to buy wool Kilim rugs. The first thing that you need to remember is to always look for handmade rugs. Weaving rugs is an art form and handmade rugs are crafted with care and skill. This results in the rugs lasting for years because the materials used are natural and of high-quality. You need to know these signs to judge whether a rug is handmade or machine-made. Flip the rug to the other side and if you can clearly see the design or the motif, then it should be handmade. The design is not clearly visible on the back of machine-made rugs. You can also inspect the materials used in the rugs. Most handmade Kilims use just one kind of material such as wool or cotton. The warps and wefts should be of the same thickness. Remember these tips on how not to get scammed when buying your first rug. Bearing these things in mind, you are now ready to purchase your Kilim rug.
Of course, the next questions should be where can you buy these rugs? There are tons of online shops that sell Kilims, and Rugknots is one of the best places where you can find high-quality Kilim rugs hassle-free. We have been in the rug business for over 30 years and we have a huge collection of durable handmade Kilims. We offer free shipping to any address within the continental United States and a 30-day free return policy.
Choosing the perfect area rug can be difficult. It is because, as rug experts, we can assure you that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to these home decors. If you have been scouring the Internet for information on some of the best rugs that you can use in your home, you might find Kilim rugs in your search. They are one of the most popular area rugs that people can buy online. They can be woven in small and large sizes and various styles, colors, and designs. These area rugs can also be crafted in an array of motifs that will match any theme of your home. If you are looking for the best rugs that you can use to improve the looks of your home’s interior design, Kilim rugs should be your first choice. Here are 14 best Kilim Rugs for 2023 to charm up your home.
1. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
Warm-up any room with this traditional multi-color kilim rug. It's intricate enough to mask imperfections in the floor but simple enough to work as a focal point for your decorating scheme. Mix and match colors or let them range so that they blend in, getting more creative by adding accent rugs over time!
2. Grey Kilim Area Rug
This meticulously handwoven gray kilim area rug introduces textured elegance into contemporary spaces with an intricately detailed, yet neutral design that never leaves you bored. Its soft wool pile adds cushioning and character without sacrificing durability.
3. Pink Kilim Area Rug
The soft and smooth texture of our Pink Kilim Area Rug will have you hooked from day one. With an eye-catching color, this Pink Rug effortlessly blends in with any existing decor that you may have with easy style. Due to its low pile height, it is perfect for high traffic areas!
4. Grey Kilim Area Rug
Our grey Kilim Area Rug, made by local artisans using traditional weaving techniques and materials, is a true representation of this. Soft wool pile and intricate design make this an elegant rug with timeless chic for your living room or bedroom.
5. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
The vibrant, intricate design of the Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug will make any room come alive. Expertly woven by skilled artisans, this traditional and authentic rug is hard to find these days so you should order it now while stocks last!
6. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
Block out the harsh flooring with our Multi-Color Kilim Area rug, perfect for today and also for generations to come. The design is intricate; it will add a touch of tradition to any room that needs it. No matter what direction your style takes, this mega-cozy Multi-Color Rug is right on trend!
7. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
The Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug is a classic and intricate pattern that's perfect for both modern and traditional spaces. The classy geometric design will give your space a smart, sophisticated aesthetic that'll surely impress your friends!
8. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
Kilim rugs are derived from weaving traditions and geography stretching thousands of years. Intricate colors coupled with a pattern make this rug perfect for any setting. This rare item will quickly become the most important thing in your home or office, guaranteed to provide relief on overworked eyes.
9. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
Handcrafted by professional designers, this rug is a one-of-a-kind piece of functional art with intricate detail and textured color that will make your decor stand out. Use it to accentuate your living room or make the perfect setting for hosting guests by slipping it under the coffee table.
10. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
This is a beautiful multi-color kilim area rug for any room in your house. Made out of wool and cotton, it is inviting to walk on all year long. It comes in a wide variety of sizes to perfectly fit your home decor needs! You will love the gorgeous patterns on the fabric creating a beautiful impact on the house.
11. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
A beautiful, inviting and sophisticated way to make your home or office feel more like you. Kilim area rugs are great for any style of decorating from traditional oriental styles to modern motifs. They provide comfort and luxury with a hand-knotted combed wool pile that provides warmth in the winter months.
12. Grey Kilim Area Rug
This hand woven grey kilim area rug, made by professional designers and weavers brings eastern flavor to any room. The pure wool fabric is soft, thick, and durable so you can put it right on the floor without worrying about spills or kids rolling around on it.
13. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
A multi-color kilim rug in browns and beige tones for a living room is beautifully subtle and inviting. The softness of this rug is nicely accommodated by the cushioning on the bottom side that keeps it from getting too close to your feet and feeling like you're being poked all day long as some other rugs may be prone to do.
14. Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug
The Multi-Color Kilim Area Rug is a lovely addition to your contemporary home. It features a gorgeous tapestry design, with multiple colors that dazzle your senses as well as your eyes. A fabulous piece for those wanting something new and different in their living room or bedroom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kilim Rugs
1. What Are Kilim-Style Rugs?
Kilim rugs are handmade from wool and cotton. They are hand-knotted and woven together to create beautiful patterns of geometric shapes, floral designs, or traditional motifs. They are typically made in Turkey, but they can also be found throughout the Middle East and Europe. Kilim rugs vary greatly in size so there is a kilim rug for every room.
2. What Is The Average Size Of A Kilim Rug?
The average size of a Kilim Rug is anywhere between 100 cm by 150cm and 200 cm by 300cm. You can also get a kilim rug as big or small as you like by customizing the size according to the space of your area.
3. What Are The Benefits Of A Kilim Rug?
Kilims have been used for centuries and there is no sign that they will go out of style any time soon. Designers love them because they can be made to suit your home decor without compromising quality or durability. They are a perfect decoration piece for your home. Kilims come with many benefits such as being affordable, durable, fashionable, and will never go out of style. Designers love them because they are very versatile. They are also perfect for outdoor areas.
4. How To Care For Kilim Area Rugs?
Kilims are durable and washable, you can clean them with soap or detergent mixed in water as well as wiping them down with a damp cloth using the same solution. When cleaning your rug make sure that you do not use harsh chemicals such as bleach because this will weaken the colors of your rug.
5. What Is The Difference Between A Persian Kilim And A Turkish Kilim?
Persian kilims are typically made with silk, wool, cotton fabrics while Turkish kilims are usually woven in wool or linen threads and are usually hand-made. You can tell a rug is Persian kilim by looking at the pattern and how intricate it is.
6. Why Are Kilim Rugs So Expensive?
Kilim rugs are more expensive than other types of rugs because they take a lot longer to produce, and generally the weaver has spent many hours working on them. Kilims also have an intricate pattern that can't be duplicated easily with machinery. They are hand-knotted by professional designers using the best quality material.
7. How Do You Know If Your Kilim Rug Is One Of A Kind And Authentic?
Authentic kilim rugs are usually hand-made and have intricate patterns. You can always check the back of the rug to see if it is hand-knotted. If the label says it is hand-knotted, that means that the rug is authentic and original.
8. From Where Can I Buy Kilim Rugs Online With Free Shipping?
Kilim area rugs can be bought online from many different websites, but if you are looking for high-quality and affordable kilim rugs with free shipping internationally, then the best website to buy them is at RugKnots. RugKnots offer various designs and sizes of kilim rugs that are handmade and hand-knotted for your convenience.
RugKnots provide the best quality products at affordable prices. You will love this selection of the best kilim rugs from our collection for your home decor! For more information, you contact us at info@rugknots.com or call us at (301) 660-7046. Our team would love to answer your queries.
