Carpets can vary in range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand or even more, depending on their size, age and uniqueness. Merchants from all over the world will ship them to you, but you will find it cheaper and more authentic to visit the destination and carry a carpet back with you. Here is a guide to the best places to visit for buying the rug of your dreams.
Turkey
Weaving rugs has been a tradition in Turkey for over 800 years as the diverse history of the country has resulted in the production of some of the finest and creative carpets in the world. If you are looking to make a statement, consider sourcing out a carpet from Turkey.
India
The gifted weavers of India have been known to produce some of the best mixes of rugs incorporating both the modern and traditional styles. Indian carpets are made from coarse wool which makes them durable and withstand years of wear and tear. India produces both machine and handmade rugs and over 40% or carpets found round the world are from this country. Handicrafts are popular buys in several states but primarily in Rajasthan.
Pakistan
There are two distinct types of rugs made in Pakistan namely, the Pehhwar and Bokhara style. Both of them feature classic designs and traditional shades for an extra luxurious feel. While Pehhwar rugs made from cotton and wool, the Bokhara carpets can be easily identified by their unique oval and diamond shape designs. Having said that, both make a great addition to any space.
Iran
Iran has been making some of the highest quality of carpets for hundreds of years and are known for their superior style of knots which makes them an item of value to treasure for life. If you are looking to buy a Persian carpet, you have to invest well as a good rug can easily last for 50 years in any space.
Turkmenistan
Apart from Turkmenistan, carpets manufactured in Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Baluchistan are certified as Turkmenistan carpets. The main style is Buchara, which includes Basjir, Tekke and Salor designs. The main feature of these rugs which sets them apart from the others is the wrap which is made from wool with repeated patterns and wide borders on the shorter side.
China
China’s reputation as a leading carpet manufacturer dates back to 2000 years when carpets were laid out in the courts of the imperial rulers. Their patterns depict old religious symbols and dragon signs from buddhist origins. Chinese carpets are thick and flexible and made mostly in the province of Suiyan, Ningxia and Inner Mongolia. The Shansi and Shantung districts were added to the list later on.
Europe
Oriental carpets were first introduced in Europe in the 11th century and were initially used to adorn the table and walls as depicted in the paintings from England, France and Italy. With the advent of the British and East India company and the Dutch in the 17th century, carpets with indo-persian designs became popular. English carpets are associated with the city of Kidderminster in Worcestershire, known for manufacturing carpets at the height of the industrial revolution.