Hand Made Oriental Rugs of the Highest Quality

Origins

Most Oriental rugs are crafted in a part of the world often referred to as the "Rug Belt". The Rug Belt stretches from China, Nepal, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Persia (Iran) to the Caucasus and Turkey.

Creating the Rug

The dying process takes place after all the necessary wool to complete the rug has been sheared and gathered. Many rugs are made from wool that was spun by hand which is traditionally of higher quality and coarser texture. Huge pots are brought to boil, colors are added, and the wool submerged into the solution. The longer the submersion the stronger the colors will be. Dying wool is an art and many villages will have one person who specializes in dying.

With all the wool dyed, dried, and sorted, the loom and warp lines in place, the actual weaving begins. First the weaver runs the weft yarn in and out of each warp line to the width of rug, back and forth, to create a solid woven area (the Kilim end). Then the weaver, using a diagram, starts tying different colors of yarn around each warp line, repeating the process to the width of the loom. After each row of knots has been tied, another weft line is added and the row is packed down with a comb. The harder it is packed the tighter the weave. This process continues for months, even years of labor, depending how close the warp lines are, and whether silk, wool, or cotton is used as warp. Ultimately, the more knots per square inch the denser the rug, the finer the clarity of design, and the greater the longevity of the rug. An expert weaver can tie up to 10,000 knots per day!

Once the weaving is completed, the rug is taken off the loom and sheared by hand to the desired pile height. In most cases the rug will be washed in the river to remove excess dyes and then left to dry by sunlight.

Caring for Your Oriental Rug

Rotation: It is very important to turn the rug 180 degrees annually to avoid the possibility of uneven fading and assure even wear and prolong the life of the rug.

Moths: As long as the rug is out in the open and being used, there is no reason to fear moths. Moths thrive in dark places under furniture and in undisturbed areas, especially during warm summer months. It is recommended not to put a rug under solid furniture but if you must, check periodically.

Hand Washing: This is one of the most important elements to preserve and prolong the life of your rug and should be done at least every 3 to 4 years.

Sweeping: An Oriental Rug should not be vacuumed. The best way to get rid of loose dirt is by sweeping with the direction of the nap (from fringe to fringe) which helps to bring out the natural patina in the rug.

Padding: High quality underlayment can protect and double the life of your rug. Mediterrania carries a complete line of natural rubber underlay, in all sizes specially designed to allow the rug to breathe and moisture to evaporate. It will not catch odors, it is washable, and it will keep rugs from skidding or slipping on hard surfaces. We also carry special rug to rug underlayment that can be used between your wall to wall and Oriental Rug.

Stain Removal: As soon as a spill occurs, react quickly. Blot up the moisture with paper towels and clean cloths. If the stain persists, use 1 tablespoon of non-bleach detergent, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and mix with a cup of warm water. Wet the area lightly and blot it gently toward the center of the stain. If this treatment fails, please call Mediterrania immediately for professional hand washing to prevent permanent staining. (We are open 7 days a week, 9 to 5.)