5 Great Things You Probably Didn't Know About Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan-style rugs have a rich history and staple look that homeowners may instantly recognize. They’ve grown really popular worldwide for their classic geometric patterns and sunset color story. However, despite countless surges in acclaim and admiration, there’s more to these carpets than what meets the eye. 

It can be a really interesting fact to learn, and collectors might even be surprised about a couple of these. Here are a few things about your Moroccan-style rug.

1. Moroccan Rugs Were Thought to Attract Bad Spirits

There’s no dispute to the fact that Moroccan rugs are truly beautiful. It’s one of the reasons they’re coveted everywhere and easily recognizable. However, some people would have some paranoia about just how pretty a traditional rug was.

Many rug makers were so in awe of their rug that they believed it would attract bad or evil spirits. Superstition wasn’t out of the ordinary at the time, but it was interesting how strongly they believed the Moroccan rugs would bring in unwanted guests. To fix that, makers would be burning the carpet’s edges and affecting its appearance to make sure evil spirits stay away. 

2. Moroccan Rugs Colors Were Influenced by Religion

Most people may recognize Moroccan rugs to come in shades of red, blue, green, and yellow. They also come in neutral colors of white and black. Although this is naturally linked to the culture of Morocco, it’s also been linked to the Islamic religion.

It may come as no surprise to some, considering there were many Muslims in Morocco. If you look at the Muslim prayer rugs used five times daily, you may notice a similar pattern to your traditional Moroccan rug. 

3. Moroccan Rugs Are Available in Different Patterns

The most prominent pattern of Moroccan rugs are probably the zig-zags and lines on top of each other. However, that’s not the only style they can come in. Moroccan rugs can come in all sorts of intricate designs and shapes, with some featuring animals like camels and fish downs or other entities like cupids and dragons. 

4. Moroccan Rugs Are Relatively Easy to Maintain

Many people may fear the worst when it’s time to clean the Moroccan rugs, but it’s going to be just like any other wool, usually when it’s an authentic one. All that’s needed is some cold water and detergent to remove any dust or stain that got on. Baking soda can also be used to get rid of the odors without affecting the color or design of the carpet itself. 

5. Moroccan Rugs Can Cost as Much as $2,500

Authentic Moroccan rugs come in a wide price range that can depend on the size and how vintage a model is. It’s also important to keep in mind that Moroccan rugs do contain sheep wool and are handmade, which is why the price is kept so high. Most rugs can reach up to $2,500, but some antique and rare designs can jack up the price further.

Conclusion 

Learning more about the Moroccan rug can provide food for thought about how complex something like a floor covering can be. It’ll also spark your interest and appreciation for just how much quality goes into the rug.

Want to check out some authentic Moroccan rugs? Atlas Weavers is a fair trade artisan project that supplies premium and real Moroccan decorative rugs worldwide. Order one today!

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/5-great-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-moroccan-rugs

A Closer Look at Moroccan Rugs: Authentic Rugs VS Replicated Rugs

In earlier times, Moroccan rugs were already being made—but it was only during the twentieth century where the rest of the world found out about them. 

The Berber and Arab tribes of Morocco who brought the rugs to life did not rely on outside inspiration to create such fascinating pieces, focusing only on their culture, tradition, and design to birth these beautiful pieces. As a result, the rugs they developed contained a strong reflection of their ancestral influences. The only difference is that the various Moroccan tribes incorporated their own personal touches, including the patterns and dyes they used and the weaves, loops, and knots they created.

Over time, its rising popularity gave consumers a difficult time distinguishing an authentic hand-made rug from those altered carpets made for wholesale production. Keep reading below to find out how to define the authenticity of a Moroccan rug. 

Mass Produced Rugs Vs. Authentic Moroccan Rugs

In today’s modern times, the word Vintage is slowly starting to lose its meaning, at least as far as Moroccan woven rugs are concerned. In fact, there’s a considerable chance that the rugs you see in the market with manufacturers claiming they’re authentic Moroccan rugs aren’t all true.

Plenty of the rugs produced and sold today imitate the look of an actual vintage Moroccan rug. They are washed, chemically aged, faded, and pile cut to mimic the real one. You can even find plenty of pastel and minimal rugs being offered in the market as antique items, with consumers being quick to purchase them on a whim without inspecting the rugs first!

If you’re interested in acquiring legitimate Moroccan rugs, the least you can do is learn about their tribe’s history. Besides weaving rugs out of necessity and passion for the craft, the Berber women did it to spark joy and comfort to what they do best, bringing life to their culture and applying it in their art.  

The Importance of Knowing the Origin of Moroccan Rugs

For those people claiming to sell authentic Moroccan rugs, it’s crucial to learn how they label the carpets accordingly, starting with identifying the right tribe they came from. If shoppers are on the lookout for Beni Ourain rugs and chanced upon a shop selling Beni Mrirt rugs, take note that the two aren’t considered the same!

Unfortunately, “Beni Mrirt” rugs aren’t exactly authentic Moroccan rugs! Mrirt is actually a town found in the Middle Atlas mountains. The use of “Beni,” which means “sons of,” is only applicable for well-established tribes—and those from Mrirt admitted that the Beni Mrirt “branding” was only done to be able to increase their sales! 

Conclusion

Buying vintage rugs takes careful research and decision-making since they are considered an investment for your home or personal space. When choosing a Moroccan rug, it will help to remind yourself of the difference between mass-produced rugs and authentic rugs and know where the rug you’re interested in purchasing originated. That way, you won’t be fooled by vendors claiming to offer vintage rugs but hold incorrect labels!

Are you looking to purchase authentic Moroccan rugs for your living room? Atlas Weavers is a premier supplier of all kinds of authentic Moroccan decorative rugs to suit your needs and preferences, wherever in the world you may be! Browse through our collection to find out what’s in store for you.

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/a-closer-look-at-moroccan-rugs-authentic-rugs-vs-replicated-rugs

About Moroccan Azilal Rugs - A Guide for Amateur Collectors

Collecting various Moroccan rugs can enable you to capture the diverse cultural backgrounds and art trends in the region. One of them worth looking at is the coveted Azilal Rug, a piece with a pattern or design scheme like no other. If you want to begin building up your collection, these woven rugs are a great way to start. Just take note that some care and thought should be considered when you purchase Azilal-made rugs. To be fully oriented, use this guide as your starting point to responsible, wise collecting.  

 

What Are Moroccan Azilal Rugs? 

The Azilal style is one of the more intricate and unique patterns from the Berber rugs. The community of artisans that produce them resides in the Atlas Mountains, which is 112 miles from the nation’s capital, Marrakech. Due to the mountainous terrain, which is ideal for sheep herding, the rugs are made of untarnished sheep’s wool. It is horizontally woven with cotton by utilizing a gridded line of knots. 

 

Most Moroccan rug enthusiasts, collections, and local cultural experts claim that the Azilal carpets are becoming more popularized as they offer a welcome alternative to another well-known style, the Beni Ourain rugs. It is mostly due to the more recent discovery of the Azilal region’s unique textile tribal elements, which were only sold in the collector’s market later into the 20th century. 

Due to the high consumer demand, you can either easily resell them for a better price or beat out more seasoned collectors if you purchase one or two pieces. 

What Is the Azilal Rugs’ Cultural Significance? 

When we think about craftsmanship and innovative products like Azilal rugs, most cultures would often look to men because of their spiritual and narrative aspects. However, that is not the case for these pieces; they are made through proud matriarchs. Women would even pass down the rugs and the weaving tradition to their children in their respective households. 

Each Azilal rug demonstrates a strong woman’s creative prowess, individuality, and deep knowledge of ancestral myths through symbolic depictions. Thus, when you purchase Azilal rugs, you empower cultural legacies to live on in each household. 

How Do I Recognize an Authentic Azilal Rug While Browsing through Different Collections? 

As an amateur collector, it is no easy feat to tell authentic Moroccan rugs apart from fake ones, especially due to the various styles out there. It does take some practice and knowledge to pull off. You should start by getting well acquainted with Boucherouite rugs’ bright colors while giving careful thought to Beni Ourain rugs’ intriguing tribal design. 

A good rule of thumb is to look for geometric woven elements on a white or cream background, but you should be careful of misclassifying rug styles. When all else fails, you can simply rely on online merchants and trusted suppliers who have already differentiated each Moroccan rug style for your convenience. 

How Can I Take Proper Care of My Purchased Azilal Rugs? 

One proper care tip that every Azilal rug collector like you should put into practice is shaking them off properly once every week to eliminate dust and debris. Once done, you can let it sit in the sun, allowing the heat and humidity to remove any harsh pathogens. These methods are far better than vacuuming because most vacuum cleaners destroy the fibers and unravel the knots faster, leading to a worn-out rug. It would be best to get it professionally hand-washed every 3-5 years or when it starts to smell bad. 

Conclusion 

Azilal rugs are an up-and-coming collector’s key to having a range of diverse pieces. They are worthwhile investments and depict the thriving Moroccan culture. Now that you have a better understanding of what you should do when getting your own, put the tips to practice and consider sourcing them from a renowned merchant like us!

Are you looking for authentic Moroccan Azilal rugs and other styles? Check out our range of options at Atlas Weavers. We work through fair trade, use the finest materials, and encourage the local artisans. Through our process, you are assured of high-quality pieces right from the source. Buy yours today! 

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/about-moroccan-azilal-rugs-a-guide-for-amateur-collectors

Digging Deeper into Moroccan Rugs - What to Know

Moroccan rugs are regarded in the modern world as accent pieces, a part of interior design that’s simply unique and valuable. One can argue that how Moroccan rugs are used today is a testament to the undeniable value of each piece, especially in an age of everything instant and digital. 

We’ve previously covered what makes these pieces worth investing in, and to further dig deeper into their roots, we talk about the most popular types of Moroccan rugs—and how each one of them came to be: 

 

Beni Ourain Rugs

Beni Ourain rugs are some of the most popular Moroccan rugs, loved by many interior enthusiasts and professionals all over the world. They’re made from sheepskin wool, handmade by Beni Ourain tribes living in the Atlas mountains. They’re traditionally used as beddings, tailored to suit the harsh winter seasons. It keeps them warm, and the wool is arranged in various geometric patterns that make them unique. 

In the modern world, the same function remains valuable for many—they remain to be the best part of approaching winter days. Keeping you warm, cozy, and extremely comfortable, these Moroccan rugs will be worth every penny.

Azilal Rugs

For people on the hunt for more ornate and bold details, Azilal Moroccan rugs are a perfect choice. They’re also made with various Berber motifs, handwoven by female artisans of tribes in the Azilal province. They’re also plush and heavy but come in geometric finishes that make use of vegetable dyes. 

These patterns are native to various rural regions of Morocco and are increasingly becoming a crowd favorite due to the knotted designs. Artistic, vintage, and rustic, the Azilal pays homage not just to unique heritages, but art in itself.

Kilim Rugs

Unlike the Beni Ourain and Azilal rugs, the Kilim Moroccan rugs are often mistaken as Turkish rugs. They’re vintage rugs that are flat and light, a far cry from the shaggy and warm details known to popular Moroccan rugs. Kilims have no heap nor the same softness, but this is exactly what makes them extremely unique—their surfaces allow more room to incorporate color and design. 

They’re best for people living in warmer climates, serving as an oriental piece you can display in the living room floors or walls. They are handwoven by craftswomen as well, and they make use of harmonious colors that add a modern and unique touch to any room.

Investing in the Right Moroccan Rugs for Your Home

People seek Moroccan rugs for a reason—they simply add art and culture to any space, all without taking away from its true origins. They’re also incredibly versatile and practical, used to add warmth to your tiles, bring in a sense of comfort, or even create a splash of design and color. The best rug will be the one that blends well into your needs and tastes. From the three discussed above, which one feels the most like you?

Thankfully, Atlas Weavers offers you the best and authentic Moroccan rugs, including the Beni Ourain, Kilim, and Azilal. As a fair trade artisan project, we make sure to pay homage to the people who created these incredible pieces. Choose the right rug for you today!

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/digging-deeper-into-moroccan-rugs-what-to-know

A Historical Look into the Origins of Moroccan Rugs

From hotel rooms to upscale office spaces, Moroccan rugs are a decor must-have for design enthusiasts. These colorful and unique statement pieces create a vibrant feel in any room. The patterns and styles are different from your everyday rug because the shapes created represent fertility, survival, and the natural world. 

 

Each rug has a unique story, artistic flair, and functions. These rugs work well with any interior design. Its varying styles were a result of the climate of the region they were developed in. Despite the original function of Moroccan rugs as beddings and floor coverings, many people around the world collect and decorate their homes with these rugs.

To know more about Moroccan rugs, read below.

The History Behind Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan rugs are traditionally made from wool. These rugs are soft to the touch, covered in geometric patterns, and a plethora of colors. Moroccan rugs were used in palaces and sacred places. 

Moroccan rugs are woven by the Berber women of Morocco, originating in 622 AD. That’s nearly 1500 years of the art being passed down from mother to daughter, from daughter to granddaughter. They are used for domestic purposes, such as bedding and flooring. 

Eventually, these rugs were used as gifts to high-class families. According to Berber lore, these rugs were so beautiful that they could attract spirits, which is why their makers would burn the edges.

Why Are Moroccan Rugs Popular?

Moroccan Rugs are popular because of the bold geometric patterns and dynamic color folk art. The patterns represent symbols and stories from the family that developed them. Moreover, these rugs require incredible skill to create, passed down from generation to generation, and developed at a young age. Designers and collectors love them because of their great beauty and amazing style. 

What Are the Moroccan Rug Patterns?

Moroccan rugs are known for their simple geometric designs. Some of the famous patterns found on these rugs are stars, checks, zigzags, triangles and crosses. Other popular designs are dragons, cupids, camels, fish, human figures, animals, Judaic motifs, Shah Abbas design, Greek key, and so on. Due to Moroccan rugs’ unique designs and vibrant colors, you can place them in any home or office. 

What Are the Types Of Moroccan Rugs?

There are different types of Moroccan rugs. One of the most captivating and popular among them are vintage Moroccan rugs. Other styles include the Boucherouite, Beni, Ourian, Boujad, Beni Mguild, and Tribal kilims.

What Are The Colors in the Moroccan Rugs?

The most popular colors in a Moroccan rug are red, yellow, white, black, blue, and green. These colors are tied to the culture of Morocco and heavily draw from the influence on Islam.

What Are These Rugs Made Of?

Handwoven Vintage Berber rugs are made of 100% natural wool. The patterns and weaving are different from Turkish and Persian rugs. There are also many mass-produced versions of these rugs, but none of these match the value, beauty, and heritage of authentic Moroccan rugs.

Conclusion

Moroccan Rugs can be beautiful accents in your office or home. It can give the space a vibrant and inviting feel to a space, allowing people in it to feel more comfortable. Buy these rugs for your home today. 

Do you need Moroccan rugs for your home or office? Purchase one at Atlas Weavers. We are a premier supplier of authentic Moroccan decorative rugs. Shop one today!

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/a-historical-look-into-the-origins-of-moroccan-rugs-atlas-weavers

Behind the Antiquities of Kilim and Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan rugs have continued to be one of the most coveted home decor. Their recognizable geometric patterns and high-quality texture make this carpet a staple. Over the years, there have been innovations and variations alike, but nothing can quite beat the classic.

The origins of the Moroccan rug were traced back to Berber weavers as early as the Paleolithic era. These rugs were used as a tool for warmth amid the harsh winters. However, their history can be a little richer than that, as are its implications. Here are some exciting things about vintage Moroccan rugs. 

Cultural Influences

Although Morocco is located in Africa, these rugs’ patterns can be traced back to Turkey’s influence. Turkish rugs or Anatolian rugs were made from high-quality materials and had a similar enough appearance. There were also many geometric patterns woven into the fabric, and the colors were also somewhat brighter. There were way more muted varieties, though.

Moroccan rugs’ tribal and nomadic style was still distinct when compared to the Turkish rug though, creating a distinct design that had withstood the test of time. They were side by side with other known rugs from the Persians and the Chinese.

When these sets of carpets entered the European market, many had grown to have an affinity for the Moroccan rug. This didn’t necessarily cause a cultural influence, but it did play a part in its demand in the Western market. 

Kilim Family

If you’ve looked into Moroccan rugs in the past, you may have seen Kilim in conjunction with that. Kilim is a Turkish word that essentially means pileless textile. A Moroccan Kilim rug celebrates the traditional North African tribal patterns and lively colors, but these carpets are flatly weaved. 

Moroccan Kilim rugs are visually appealing, but they appear to be more muted and have less definition to them. This hybrid’s distinction is still widely praised and uplifted by enthusiasts in the community for its intricacies. 

However, it may be a little different when it comes to the local scene. There are some in Kilim, Turkey who aren’t big fans of introducing Moroccan style to their looms. It certainly hasn’t slowed down production, though.

Symbolism

If you’ve ever had a lot of curiosity about the different lines and shapes you would see on a Moroccan rug, you’re not the only one! There have been tons of historians, rug experts, and cultural designers who have been trying to study the appeal behind the dynamic design and vibrancy of a classic Moroccan rug. 

Interestingly, some masculine subtexts were derived from the geometric zig zags and lines present in the Moroccan rugs. Feminine subtexts were also present in the bright diamonds that were woven into the carpet. 

This indicated that the Moroccan rug had symbolized the union of men and women together. Some believe this is parental when welcoming a child into this world, while others think these also referred to their partnership as lovers. 

Conclusion

Moroccan rugs have such a rich variety and alluring factor, and learning more about them just makes it that much more appreciable. You could probably subtly gift this to a partner of yours, and they’d never even realize that it was a declaration of love. 

Atlas Weavers is a fair trade artisan project and supplier of authentic, high-quality Moroccan rugs worldwide. Order one today! 

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/behind-the-antiquities-of-kilim-and-moroccan-rugs

Styling Your Home With Authentic Moroccan Rugs

Some homeowners seem naturally gifted at styling their abode with beautiful artwork, stunning pieces of furniture, and unique decorative pieces. However, not everyone has that artistic eye, which means they’ll need a bit more help thinking of ways to dress up their home. Since this usually consists of browsing the Internet for inspirational home décor ideas and pictures, they get to discover overlooked pieces that can instantly transform their home, which is often the case with authentic Moroccan rugs.

These one-of-a-kind woven works of art reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Berbers or Imazighen, an ethnic group found in North Africa and West Africa. When added to a home as a wall hanging or a rug, they infuse warmth and personality, regardless of your home’s interior style. For instance, there are many colorful vintage Azilal rugs you can use to spice up an otherwise neutral space. However, if you’d like to balance the vibrant pieces you’ve installed in a room, a classic Beni Ourain rug would complement it perfectly.

Here’s what you need to know about styling your home with authentic Moroccan rugs:

Minimalist or Monochrome Interiors

If you have a penchant for minimalist or monochrome décor, but you’d like to add a soft focal point that lends warmth to the room, Beni Ourain rugs are your best bet. They are elegant pieces that are gorgeous in their own right yet do not interfere with a room’s simplicity. They feature undyed tribal or geometric patterns that add more visual interest in spaces full of clean lines and gleaming surfaces, adding even more sophistication.

Infusing Color Into a Muted Space

On the other hand, if you’d like to add more exciting pieces into a room that’s too neutral or safe, Moroccan rugs can liven up the atmosphere. They can work in virtually any style of home, so if you’d like to elevate a room full of whites and beiges, you can add vibrant Azilal rugs. They’re also great for introducing more color into a room without being invasive or disruptive, tying a room together even more. 

Maintaining a Shabby Chic Look

If you love decorating your home with colorful wallpaper, bohemian-inspired accessories, and vibrant artwork, then Azilal rugs will complement these perfectly. It’s a great way to create a comprehensive shabby chic look for your home with its multicolored designs while making it look warm and inviting. 

Creating a Calming Atmosphere

Meanwhile, Beni Ourain rugs are incredible for creating an artistic vibe, especially when using a soft white rug against a backdrop of earthy colors. You’ll end up with a modern yet relaxing space, helping you feel calm every time you step into the room. On the other hand, you can also use bright Azilal rugs along with green plants and wicker furniture to transform the room into a retreat-like space, offering a private respite away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Conclusion

Moroccan rugs are a great way to add more function and form to your home, regardless of the style you choose. They’re one-of-a-kind and culturally rich, adding more vibrance and history to your space while honoring traditional weavers and their hard work. By decorating your home with authentic Moroccan rugs, you’ll have a uniquely curated space that you’ll happily call your own.

Atlas Weavers is the premier supplier of authentic Moroccan rugs committed to delivering gorgeous, long-lasting textiles. All our rugs are family-woven in our communities in line with our dedication to preserving centuries-old traditions. Shop our collection today to find your next rug!

source https://atlasweavers.com/blogs/news/styling-your-home-with-authentic-moroccan-rugs