The World-Famous Boucherouite or Berber Rugs from Morocco

Morocco is well-known for its wool carpets created by semi-nomadic Berbers. These indigenous peoples have always avoided metropolitan areas as herders and farmers, and their weaving symbolizes their independence. It is less affected by the traditional symmetry of Middle Eastern models, instead favoring wild, improvisatory forms.

The style in issue is known as boucherouite (pronounced boo-shay-REET), which is derived from a Moroccan-Arabic term for damaged and repurposed garments. The carpets described, created by women for household use, are essentially variants on the modest rags.

These domestic goods appear to be dressed up and ready to party, with their dazzling designs and bright colors; they seem to be more fit for framing than stomping underfoot.

What are Boucherouite Rugs?

It is a French version of the Arabic word for "rag." These rugs are made of recycled cloth dyed many times and worn out many times.

They are big and bold and embellished with vibrantly colored geometric designs and with an allover composition in which no motif is precisely repeated.

Furniture and clothing of this sort are worked out of discarded cloth, using whatever is at hand, and the feel is more utilitarian, reflecting the circumstances of Morocco's Berber mountain people.

Like many Moroccan rugs, Boucherouite were once made at home on a basic loom and sold in small, family-owned shops. In the '60s and '70s, these Berber rugs became famous as folk art. Art collectors and dealers began to visit the remote villages the Berbers had retreated to. Recently, the rugs have been attracting more attention; the prices have been rising. In this time of economic uncertainty, they are selling fast.

The Boucherouite style has become more fashionable, with Moroccan artisans working in factory settings. However, they were initially made by women in the Atlas Mountains and the desert hinterlands. 

They are of two types, which are both trapezoidal. The ruggier of the two typically has a field of white or another light color on which the pattern or "story" is presented. The other is dark and has a pattern printed on top of the field.

Their patterns are hard to describe; the vocabulary available for them includes words for decoration and for complexion (think of the difference between "white" and "green"). Boucherouite rugs are piles of overlapping layers of wool and cotton, hand-dyed. 

The overlaps at their corners are tucked into tiny knots that serve as a kind of fabric Velcro. The layers of each rug are called plates, and the decorative element is called a "motif."

What Do the Motifs Look Like?

They are varied and often unlike one another; most have symmetrical designs. Some are stylized, geometric, and functional, like the patterns on the rugs, for example, that serve for prayer in mosques. 

Others are floral, floral-like, foliate, foliate-like, or representational since actual flowers are used as the dye. There are human and animal figures, plants and trees, geometric shapes, and spaces for naming. Boucherouite rugs are made for domestic use, and men, women, and children all use them in regular life.

What Makes a Boucherouite Rug a Boucherouite Rug?

The appeal is in their energy and verve, their unusual designs and colors. They are at once relaxed and wild, relaxed but full of surprises and impetuousness, reflecting the country's history and its cultures.

They aren’t also something you can buy at your local carpet store. The patterns are often intricate and asymmetrical, varying from dark to light. However, they are not narrative, like tapestries or Persian carpets, with a beginning and an end. Many motifs repeat themselves, but there is a great deal of variety among them, too.

Choose Boucherouite Rugs Today

Boucherouite rugs are not necessarily sophisticated, complex, or subtle, but unique, rough, bright, and beautiful. Moreover, they give you a taste of the traditional Moroccan rug experience in expressive, fun, and functional designs. They are perfect even for today's modern home designs.

If you want to shop for authentic Boucherouite rugs, Atlas Weavers can provide that for you. We are a premier supplier of Moroccan decorative rugs, with each rug unique and of exceptional quality. Aiming to preserve centuries-old traditions, we use the finest grade natural spring wools, native dyes, and herbal washes. It's our mission to bring the rich Moroccan tradition and culture of the Berber people to Western living spaces.

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/the-world-famous-boucherouite-or-berber-rugs-from-morocco

Why Choose a Rug from Morocco (A List of Benefits)

Moroccan rugs and carpets have a long history, dating back to the Paleolithic era. Throughout the ages, the Moroccan people created these woven masterpieces for practical purposes rather than commercial or decorative ones. The versatility of these woven pieces suited both cold and hot climates, allowing herders to use thick rugs and keep warm in the Sahara desert or nomads to use lighter pieces as they crossed the Atlas mountains. Each group would add their distinctive designs to their rugs, with or without the use of dyes.

Why Choose Rugs from Morocco? (A List of Benefits)

The different tribes of Morocco produce distinctive pieces, reflected in their color palettes, patterns, and weave designs. As a rugged piece of décor, Moroccan rugs are an affordable luxury, adding color and warmth to your home for a relatively low cost.

Here is a list of reasons why you may be interested in adding a Moroccan rug to your collection:

1 - Durability

Moroccan rugs are extremely comfortable to sit on and lie on due to the soft wool material used in their construction. They are easy to clean and sturdy, weathering years of foot traffic, natural disasters, and other elements. The process of weaving an authentic Moroccan rug is complicated and time-consuming, with about 50 hours needed to complete a single rug.

2 - Styles

From geometric designs to floral patterns, textured designs, and classic Moroccan motifs, there is a Moroccan rug for every room in your home. If you need inspiration, visit the Moroccan section of our website. We offer a wide selection of rugs in different designs and color palettes so you can find the right fit for your home.

3 - Easy to maintain

Made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the elements, Moroccan rugs are an easy way to incorporate a touch of Moroccan décor into your home. All you need to do is vacuum your rug regularly and bring it to a professional to have it cleaned when necessary.

4 - They are handmade

Moroccan rugs are handmade from natural products, such as wool. This makes it easy to know that you are purchasing an authentic piece. Moroccan manufacturers are OK with you looking at and touching the rug, so you can make sure that it is durable and comfortable.

5 - Traditional designs and colors

Moroccan rugs have a signature design, with a pattern that has endured through the ages, changing only slightly with time. Whether you choose a rug with a bold pattern or a simpler, monochromatic piece, you will surely choose authentic craftsmanship.

6 - A unique piece

There is something special and unique about a handmade rug that you won’t find in a store. No two rugs are the same, and they are often one of a kind. You can also choose different colors than you may find at a retail store, giving you the ability to create a unique piece.

Conclusion

Moroccan rugs are beautiful pieces that can be used in any room in your home, giving it brightness and warmth. With their durability and durability, Moroccan rugs can be a practical and attractive investment. Find the right Moroccan rug for your home at a great price.

For more information about Moroccan rugs, please come to Atlas Weavers. We are a fair trade artisan project and a premier supplier of authentic Moroccan rugs. Shop with us today!

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/why-choose-a-rug-from-morocco-a-list-of-benefits

All About the Amazing Beni Ourain Rug

Nomadic Wonder : All About the Amazing Beni Ourain Rug

 

Beni Ourain rugs are Moroccan rugs with a long history. Nomadic tribes created them by hand, weaving them out of materials they found in nature. If you appreciate the value of nomadic art, you will undoubtedly be interested in its intricacies. They are not only beautiful but also have many cultural connections with nature. The unique designs of these rugs result from the beautiful weaving process that nomadic tribes use.

Basically, they are named after the Beni Ourain tribes that hail from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The word “Ourain” is a word in the Berber's language and comes from the name of a tribe that was known for their nomadic lifestyle. People from this tribe often traveled from one area to another with their wool, as border rug weaving was not the primary source of income for these tribes. Instead, the wool was used for other purposes, such as bedding and burial shrouds. Over time, the wool also began to be used for saddle blankets.

As their history tells us, the Berbers tribes began their language in the southern part of Morocco, where they inhabited. Therefore, the language itself is a Berber dialect. In fact, this tribe has been known as the first tribe ever to occupy Morocco. Interestingly enough, the history of the rug goes back as far as the 5th century AD and through to the 11th century.

Who Designs and Makes the Rugs?

As previously mentioned, the Beni Ourain rugs are made from wool. People in the tribe tend to use materials from nature to manufacture these rugs. For example, they use wool from sheep and goat hair. The patterns of these rugs are also artistic in nature, often implementing the Berber tribal weaving style.

What is the Meaning of the Colors?

When looking at a Beni Ourain rug, you’ll notice that it comprises many colors. The colors are not randomly placed on the rug; rather, they have a deeper meaning. This is mainly because the rugs were made by nomadic tribes who had no idea what art really was. Thus, they merely used the designs that they knew.

For instance, the white on the rug signifies purity. This is why they use white to symbolize the night sky, the moon, and the snow. Similarly, there is a color pattern that is made up of geometric shapes. These shapes are part of the tradition in their culture. Evidently, the shapes are very intricate and challenging to make.

Other cultural symbols also grace these rugs. For example, you’ll find a symbol representing the sun and its reflection in the snow. In addition, there is also a symbol for the sun that is made up of two triangles.

The future of the Beni Ourain rugs

All in all, the future of the Beni Ourain rugs is bright. In the last couple of years, they have gained popularity in the west. These rugs have been featured in various media, including movies and TV shows.

In addition, the rugs have been featured in several art shows and galleries. In fact, a documentary on these rugs will be screened in Morocco. According to design and decor experts, they are likely to become even more popular, as some of their pieces are going mainstream.

Conclusion

Overall, the history of these rugs makes them even more attractive. They have been around for centuries and are still being made by the nomadic tribes of today. 

Valued for their intricate designs and patterns, many people find them filling up their exteriors, being used as a decorative piece in any room of the house, in the bedroom, the living room, and even the kitchen. Due to their ability to fit any theme or design, they are as relevant as ever and are currently in demand amongst many home stylists. That is the eventual modern impact of Beni Ourain rugs.

If you are looking for a reliable source of high-quality Beni Ourain rugs, look no further than our selections here at Atlas Weavers. We are your premier supplier of authentic Moroccan decorative rugs, and we offer a wide range of them, all hand-made to perfection. Check out our online store for more of our amazing rugs and their prices.

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/all-about-the-amazing-beni-ourain-rug

5 Top Benefits of Having Moroccan Rugs in Your Home

Are you looking for ways to spice up your home? Are you thinking of incorporating creative decor that will add a splash of color while providing you with a warm feeling of home?

 

If so, you can add Moroccan rugs to your living space. Here are five ways it can improve the overall look and feel of your home.

It Adds a Splash of Color

Are you fond of using plain white colors all over your house? Then a Moroccan rug can break that monotony.

These rugs can add vibrant colors to your plain room or can become a focal point in your living room. If your bedroom needs changing, placing a Moroccan rug can spice it up a little. You can even convert your office into a Moroccan-themed room by adding other decors that perfectly complement the style and colors of your Moroccan rug.

It Ties in the Colors of Your Home 

If you are not sure how to incorporate the different colors into your home, then adding a Moroccan rug might help you tie in all the colors together.

If you look closely at your Moroccan rug, you will see different colors which can help you choose the same colors for your room. For instance, if your rug has bright red colors then you can pattern your room using the same color by adding bright red throw pillows or using a bright red couch.

Just make sure that you find the right balance so the colors will blend in and not overpower the colors of your rug or of any part of your home.

It Fills in the Blank Spaces of Your Home

If you think that your living room or your bedroom looks like it has a lot of unused space, then you can build on that space by adding house plants, a coffee table, and a Moroccan rug to complete the set. You can even put a few throw pillows in instead of a coffee table to make the space more comfortable.

It Makes Your Home Look Stylish and Put Together

Using a Moroccan rug can make your home look different in a good and stylish way. Incorporating Moroccan rugs into your living room makes it vibrant, well put together, and even more stylish. 

It Keeps Your Feet Warm During the Winter

During wintertime, it can be really cold, especially on your feet. 

Putting a Moroccan rug into your living room can keep your feet warm while sitting there working on your laptop, or while you are watching your favorite television. You can install these rugs all over your home, so you can just walk around without feeling cold or straining your feet on the surface of hardwood floors.

Conclusion

Using decorative Moroccan rugs can transform your home into a place where vibrant colors and styles mix together to create the perfect warm look even during winter.

Atlas Weavers is a fair trade artisan project and a premier supplier of authentic Moroccan rugs perfect for any style and size of a home. Shop for your Moroccan rug today so we can bring the rich tradition and culture of the Berber people into your living space.

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/5-top-benefits-of-having-moroccan-rugs-in-your-home

How to Decorate Your Home With Rugs: Our Simple Guide

Rugs are an instant accent to a room that lacks excitement. They may seem a trifling detail for some, but they can actually make the room look really different. If you’re not sure how to decorate your home with rugs, allow us to help you. 

This article will be your guide in decorating your home with rugs. Don’t worry; the ways are just simple, so there’s no need to think that you can’t pull it off on your own.

Let’s get started! 

1. Place It Somewhere That Needs Definition

Look around your home and see if there’s a space that’s quite boring. When we say boring, there’s not so much in there. Then, put a rug somewhere in that space just to add definition. Trust us, that area will not look the same as before since rugs can effectively define a space or separate areas. 

2. Try to Create a Variety

When decorating with rugs, make sure to use different-sized rugs in a room to create a sense of variety. Just so you know, same-sized rugs can visually cut the room in two. Instead of giving the room an accent, you may unintentionally cut it if you place a same-sized rug. Only utilize same-sized rugs if you intend to really divide the space. 

3. Ensure That You’re Decorating in Harmony

While you are allowed to create variety, you must remember that harmony is equally important. Ensure that all the rugs you place perfectly complement each other in style. Otherwise, the room will only look disoriented and visually unappealing. As much as possible, don’t put rugs with too many “warring” patterns in a room altogether because it’s not the best combination you can have. 

4. Look for Inspirations

Don’t make it too hard for you. You can always look for inspirations, especially for the color scheme. If you’re unsure what color combinations work best, do some research and then incorporate it into your space. Use your favorite rug as the basis of the color scheme in a room. From there, you can search what color works best for that particular color, then buy the items or furniture that will complement the color of your rug. 

5. Always Control the Volume

Let’s say your room has an upholstery or wallpaper with an ornate pattern. In that case, only choose a more subtle rug. Remember, rugs are there to create an accent to a room or turn up the volume as needed; they are not there to add an accent to a space that already has a focal point. If you combine loud style rugs with the loud accentuated room, it will only look scattered and messy. 

6. Choose a Space That You Want Some Focus On

If you want to highlight a particular space inside your home, use a rug to create that focal point. It’s very effective in making an impact. However, you need to do it properly. One way you can do that is to create a contrast. For example, try painting your walls a hue that echoes one of your rug’s accent colors. That way, you’re creating contrast while still complimenting your rugs to the walls. 

Conclusion

Take advantage of this guide and work your way through decorating your home with rugs. It’s not going to be that hard now since you already know what you should consider and avoid. You can complete the look of your room by tying all different pieces together visually. Once you’ve successfully done it, your home will definitely be a hit to your family and future guests.

If you’re looking for an authentic Moroccan rug, Atlas Weavers have got what you’re searching for! We are a fair trade artisan project and a premier supplier of authentic Moroccan decorative rugs worldwide. Browse our collection and place your order with us today! 

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/how-to-decorate-your-home-with-rugs_-our-simple-guide