Moroccan Style Rugs

Decorate Your Interior with Handwoven Morrocan Rugs

The earliest Moroccan rugs date back to the 7th century. There was no other way to make them except entirely by hand, like the authentic rugs available in the market today.

These early Moroccan area rugs were used as saddle blankets, sleeping mats, and covers. Sometimes, they were used for self-decoration and burial shrouds. The construction of these rugs depended on the distinct climate of the region. Thick rugs made from natural wool provided Moroccan tribes with warmth, especially in areas such as the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Meanwhile, thin rugs were lightweight and easy for people to transport and wear. These rugs slowly became colorful decorative pieces after dyeing each piece.

During that time, the old masters believed that burning the edges of a Moroccan rug could fend off evil spirits and protect its owners. To take that idea further, it was a commonly held belief that burning the edges of a rug would prevent evil spirits from harbouring jealousy over the natural beauty of a rug.

Moroccan rugs are best known for their asymmetrical beauty. Specific subclasses of Moroccan rugs include Amazigh or Berber rugs, which feature simple geometric patterns and a plush texture. These remarkable pieces are one-of-a-kind type of decor that you can place in any area of your home.

Materials and Weaving Techniques

Moroccan rugs are made with natural materials such as wool and silk. Its rug weaving process is inspired by weaving techniques from areas in the Middle East and North Africa. The most common weaving styles include hand-knotting, flat weaving, and weft substitution. Each type provides its own unique finish.

Hand-knotted Moroccan area rugs are fluffy and warm. These rugs are made by laying its weft threads across the warp then tightening them. In turn, this creates a secure base for the raised-pile knots. On the other hand, flat-woven rugs are made without any knots, making them thinner than pile carpets.

Weft substitution is a variation of flat weaving. When using this technique, the patterns are created from the back of the loom with different colored threads. This way, weavers can produce more elaborate designs.

Colors and Patterns

Moroccan carpets often feature abstract, colorful designs. Some rugs, especially flat-woven ones, look much simpler with designs such as stripes and chevrons, giving them a look similar to complex tapestries.

This decorative piece can also depict Oued Zem, a primitive style that uses bright colors and features design elements such as animals, toys, or household motifs. Because of their eye-catching look, these rugs are also called “children’s rugs.”

Other styles of Moroccan rugs include Azilal, which feature colorful geometric patterns, and Oulmes, which blend abstract and geometric styles.

Caring for and Cleaning Moroccan Rugs

Prolong the life of your Moroccan area rug with these easy-to-follow tips:

• You can wash it by hand using water and cleaning agents and let it dry under the sun. For best results, have your rug cleaned professionally.
• Prevent dirt from seeping deep into your rug’s material by shaking off the dirt at least once a week.
• Make sure that you flip the rug and vacuum both sides. This guarantees a thorough clean.
• Protect Moroccan rugs you’ve installed indoors by placing an entry mat at your front door. This can help catch moisture and dirt from the shoes of people before entering your house.

Decorating with Moroccan Rugs

Incorporate this one-of-a-kind piece into your interiors and watch your space slowly come to life. Check out these decorating tips you can follow:

• Bring an eclectic mix of vivid colors and patterns into your space by installing a rug with abstract and bright hues.
• Place two rugs side by side or layer them on top of each other to add depth to a room. Doing this can make areas look more comfortable, such as hard flooring.
• Moroccan rugs are more textured than other types of rugs. Create a distinct, textured look by choosing a Moroccan rug and matching it with decorative pieces with the same color scheme.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean a Berber rug?

Berber area rugs are rugs with extremely tight knots which, in turn, limit dirt and other particles from settling deep into its fibers. Use a steam vacuum without any brushes to clean this type of rug because the bristles could damage your rug. You can also use water and a cleaning agent to get rid of stains and odors.

Are Moroccan rugs expensive?

Moroccan rugs are a bit pricey compared to other types of rugs for several reasons. First, production can take months or even years to finish. The cost of the materials used is also high. For example, creating these rugs involve using natural dyes that are more complicated to make than synthetic dyes. But just like any type of art, each Moroccan rug is unique, and you’ll get your money’s worth by choosing to buy one.

How are Moroccan rugs made?

Moroccan rugs are created in different ways. Each method provides a unique finish to these exquisite masterpieces. For example, flat-woven rugs have no knots and are thinner than most types of carpets. Meanwhile, knotted rugs use warp and weft threads to secure a base for the pile.

Unravel More Design Possibilities with Moroccan Rugs

Bring the rich Moroccan culture and its tradition into your living area. See its opulent heritage come to life when you adorn your home with a Moroccan rug. Let this be the final piece of decor to bring your different spaces of your home together.

Whatever style you may be looking for, there is something that will fit your taste at Cyrus Artisan Rugs. We have a comprehensive collection of artisan pieces in various colors, patterns, and motifs. Our excellent customer service is willing to help you find the right rug.

Schedule a visit to our showroom and see these masterpieces in person. You may also browse our online catalog to see all the design pieces available at Cyrus Rugs.