Frequently asked and interesting questions about Kilim rug

Kilim rugs have been fascinating people for centuries with their unique patterns, vibrant colours and special handcrafted techniques. Many people wonder why these rugs are so special, what stories they tell and how to care for them properly.

If you've ever asked yourself the question:

✅ What is a Kilim rug and how is it different from other carpets?

✅ How are they made and in which regions are they woven?

✅ What is the symbolic meaning of their patterns?

✅ How can you recognise the authentic hand-woven pieces?

✅ Which interior design styles are they best suited to?

Then you're in the right place! We've collected the most common and interesting questions about Kilim rugs and answered them. Discover the magical world of Kilims and why they are timeless works of art! 🔥

Frequently asked questions about Kilim rugs include:

What is a Kilim rug?

Kilim is a flatweave, hand-woven rug, traditionally woven from wool or cotton. It is not knotted and is therefore thinner and lighter than classic Persian or Oriental rugs.

How does Kilim differ from Persian rugs?

• Flat weave, no fluffy or knotted surface
• Lighter and more elastic, it can also be used as a tapestry
• Often double-sided - the other side can also be used
• Geometric patterns, often with Turkish, Persian, Afghan and Indian motifs

How is Kilim rug made?

A Kilim rug is crafted using a traditional hand-weaving technique. In this process, skilled weavers interlace weft fibres (the horizontal threads) through a set of vertical warp threads on a loom. Unlike knotted pile rugs, Kilim rugs are flat-woven, meaning there are no knots involved in their construction. This method results in a rug with a smooth, flat surface and a reversible design, where the pattern remains continuous and clean on both sides. Because Kilim rugs are woven entirely by hand, each piece is a unique example of craftsmanship, reflecting the skills, traditions, and cultural heritage of the artisans who create them.

What material is a Kilim rug made of?

Kilim rugs are traditionally made from natural materials, chosen for their durability, flexibility, and aesthetic qualities. The most commonly used materials include:

✅ Wool – Typically sheep’s wool, which is highly valued for its flexibility, strength, and natural resilience. Wool fibres are soft yet durable, making them ideal for hand-weaving and everyday use.

✅ Cotton – Often used for the warp threads or as the foundation of the rug. Cotton adds stability and helps maintain the rug’s shape over time.

✅ Natural vegetable dyes – Traditional Kilim rugs are dyed using natural plant-based dyes, which produce rich, long-lasting colours. These dyes not only enhance the rug’s appearance but also contribute to its longevity.

These materials, combined with hand-weaving techniques, result in a high-quality, sustainable product that has been valued for centuries.

Where are traditional Kilim rugs made?

Traditional kilim rugs are made in many countries around the world. Each has its own weaving technique, pattern and cultural significance. The most famous and historically significant kilim weaving traditions come from the following countries:

✅Turkey - Known for Anatolian kilims with bold geometric patterns and bright colours. These rugs often contain ancient symbolic motifs that have been passed down through generations.

✅Iran - Home of Persian kilims, including the well-known Sumak variety. Persian kilims are renowned for their intricate patterns, fine craftsmanship and high quality natural dyes.

✅Afghanistan - Famous for its Chobi kelims, which stand out for their bright colour palette and traditional tribal patterns. These rugs are prized for their durability and authentic tribal art. It is perhaps the best known Kilim variety.

✅Pakistan and India - Producers of Larya kilims woven with traditional and modern techniques depicting geometric motifs. These countries are also known for the blending of cultural influences in their designs.

✅North Africa - In particular Morocco, where Moroccan kilims are woven by Berber tribes. These rugs often feature bold, abstract patterns and natural dyes that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Each of these areas brings its own regional style and cultural identity to weaving kilims, resulting in a diverse and rich tradition that continues to flourish today.

How to clean and maintain?

Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your kilim. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

✅ Do not soak in water - Excessive moisture can damage natural dyes and weaken the fibres of the rug.

✅ Dry cleaning is recommended - Leave deep cleaning to a professional carpet cleaning company. For regular cleaning, however, use a vacuum cleaner on a low setting and without a brush attachment to avoid pulling the fibres.

✅ Rotate regularly - Rotate your carpet once every few months or once a year to ensure even wear and prevent areas of the carpet from becoming excessively faded or worn.

✅ Avoid exposure to direct, strong sunlight - Exposure to prolonged sunlight can cause colour fading over time. If possible, place the kilim in a shaded area or use a curtain to block strong sunlight.

✅ Spot cleaning with a slightly damp cloth - For minor spills or stains, gently wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid excessive rubbing as this may damage the fibres or spread the stain.

✅ Do not machine wash - Machine washing can cause irreversible damage to the carpet's structure and natural materials.

By following these simple but important care tips, you can preserve the look, quality and value of your hand-woven kilim for decades

How durable is a Kilim rug?

Kilim rugs are known for their exceptional durability, especially when they are properly cared for. Hand-woven using high-quality natural materials—typically wool and cotton—Kilim rugs are designed to withstand daily use while maintaining their structural integrity and visual appeal. When regularly cleaned, rotated, and protected from excessive moisture and direct sunlight, a well-maintained Kilim can retain its original beauty and function for decades, often lasting through multiple generations. Many antique Kilim rugs, still in excellent condition today, are a testament to their enduring craftsmanship and resilient design.

Which is the correct name: Kilim or Kelim?

Both "kilim" and "kelim" refer to the same type of flatweave rug, but Kilim is the most widely accepted and commonly used spelling, especially in English and international contexts. In German, Dutch and some Scandinavian languages, "Kelim " is often used, reflecting regional pronunciation and spelling preferences.

What types of interiors are best suited for Kilim rugs?

Kilim rugs are incredibly versatile and complement a wide range of interior design styles. Their vibrant colours, geometric patterns, and handcrafted quality make them suitable for various settings, including:

✅ Modern and minimalist interiors – A Kilim rug adds warmth and character to sleek, understated spaces. Its unique colours and patterns provide a striking contrast, brightening up the room and creating a focal point.

✅ Bohemian and vintage spaces – Kilim rugs pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood, leather, and linen. Their earthy tones and ethnic motifs enhance the relaxed, eclectic atmosphere typical of bohemian and vintage interiors.

✅ Classic and traditional homes – A Kilim rug can introduce rich texture and refined patterns, adding a touch of elegance and timeless appeal to more formal spaces.

✅ As a wall tapestry – Beyond their use as floor coverings, Kilim rugs can also be hung on the wall as decorative tapestries, bringing warmth, colour, and an artistic element to large wall spaces.

Whether used on the floor or as a piece of wall decorations, Kilim rugs can enhance the aesthetic of virtually any interior, blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design.

Which Kilim is the best quality?

The best quality kilim rugs are distinguished by their excellent craftsmanship, materials and authentic provenance. When choosing an authentic kilim rug, consider the following key factors:

✅Handwoven, not machine-made - Authentic kilims are woven by skilled artisans who make unintentional mistakes in the handcrafted process. This gives the Kilim its authenticity. The result of hand weaving is a durable, long-lasting rug with a unique character unlike machine-made imitations.

✅Made from 100% wool and dyed with natural vegetable dyes - The best Kilim rugs are made from high quality sheep's wool , used for its resilience, durability and soft texture. The natural vegetable dyes provide rich, vibrant colours that mature beautifully over time to form a distinctive patina.

✅Unique, handmade patterns, not mass-produced designs - Each authentic Kilim rug features unique patterns that often reflect the weaver's cultural heritage and personal stories. These unique patterns make each piece special, unlike mass-produced copies.

✅Originates from traditional rug weaving regions - The most famous and authentic Kilim rugs come from regions with a long history of rug weaving, including:

• Turkey - Anatolian kilim
• Iran - Sumak Kilim
• Afghanistan - Chobi kilim

Carpets from these areas are considered the highest quality of Kilim craftsmanship due to their centuries-old weaving traditions and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Can a Kilim be used in high-traffic areas?

Yes, Kilim rugs are durable and hard-wearing, making them suitable for high-traffic areas such as:

• Entrance Hall: The entrance hall is one of the busiest parts of the home, where rugs are exposed to constant wear and tear. Kilim rugs are thin, so they don’t obstruct doors from opening. Thanks to their strong, tightly woven structure, they are ideal for frequent use and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for entryways.
• Living Room: As the central gathering space for the family, the living room sees a lot of activity. A Kilim rug not only adds a stylish touch but also maintains its appearance over time due to its durable material.
• Dining Room: Rugs in dining areas often have to contend with spills, such as food stains or dropped drinks. The flat weave of Kilim rugs makes these easier to clean, and they dry quickly if they get wet.
• Offices and Waiting Rooms: These spaces experience high foot traffic, so durability is key. Kilim rugs offer a simple yet elegant aesthetic while withstanding heavy use.
• Corridors: Long, narrow areas like hallways often require runners. Kilim runners are durable and practical, making them perfect for busy passageways.
• Retail Spaces: In stores or showrooms, a rug serves both decorative and functional purposes. Kilim rugs handle daily foot traffic well while enhancing the visual appeal of the space.
• Hospitality Areas (Cafés and Restaurants): In these environments, rugs add warmth and comfort. However, ease of maintenance and resilience are essential. Kilim rugs meet these needs perfectly, offering both practicality and charm.

Because Kilim rugs are thinner than knotted carpets, they can shift more easily. Using a non-slip underlay is often recommended to keep the rug in place and prevent slipping.

What colours and patterns are typical of Kilim rugs?

Kilim rugs are known for their bold colour combinations and distinctive geometric patterns. The most common colours include red, orange, brown, blue, and green—traditionally achieved using natural dyes.

Typical motifs found in Kilim rugs originate from Turkish, Persian, and Afghan traditions. These include designs such as diamonds, triangles, stars, and stylised animal figures. Each pattern often carries symbolic meaning, reflecting cultural heritage and local artistry.

How can you tell the difference between a authentic Kilim and a fake?

An authentic Kilim rug typically has the following characteristics:

✅ Hand-woven: When you inspect the back of the rug, the pattern appears almost as clearly as it does on the front. This is a hallmark of hand-weaving.
✅Made from natural materials: Authentic Kilim rugs are woven from wool or cotton, without the use of synthetic fibres.
✅Unique and imperfect patterns: Because each piece is handcrafted, small irregularities or variations in the design are common. These imperfections are signs of authenticity and craftsmanship.
✅ Flexible and bendable: Hand-woven kilim rugs are generally more flexible and foldable than machine-made alternatives.

Can a Kilim be used outdoors?

Kilim rugs are not recommended for long-term outdoor use for several reasons:

• Direct sunlight can cause the colours to fade over time.
• Moisture can damage the wool fibres, leading to deterioration.

However, if you would like to use a Kilim rug outdoors, it is best placed in covered areas, such as a patio, veranda, or porch, where it is protected from direct sunlight and excessive moisture, but even then only for short periods.

Can a Kilim be folded for storage?

Yes, Kilim rugs are flat-woven, which makes them easy to fold or roll up and store in compact spaces.

Storage Tips:

• Store the rug in a dry, well-ventilated place to prevent moisture buildup.
• Use lavender sachets or cedar wood blocks to help protect against moths.
• Do not store the rug in a plastic bag, as it can trap moisture and lead to mould or mildew.

Is a Kilim recommended for homes with dogs and cats?

Yes, Kilim rugs can be a good option for households with pets, but there are a few important considerations:

• Due to the thin, flat weave, pet nails can sometimes get caught in the fibres. Regular nail trimming is recommended to prevent damage.
• Kilim rugs tend to collect pet hair more easily than other types of carpets, so they may require more frequent vacuuming or cleaning.
• In case of accidents (such as spills or pet-related incidents), it’s important to clean the rug promptly, as wool fibres can absorb moisture quickly, potentially leading to stains or odours if not addressed in time.

What sizes of Kelims are available at CarpetDepo?

At CarpetDepo, Kelim rugs are available in a wide variety of sizes, including:

• Small sizes (50x80 cm, 60x90 cm): Ideal for entryways, door fronts, or smaller spaces.
• Medium sizes (120x180 cm, 140x200 cm): Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or under coffee tables.
• Large sizes (200x300 cm, 250x350 cm): Suitable for spacious areas such as large living rooms or open-plan interiors.
• Runners (80x300 cm, 90x400 cm): Designed for corridors, hallways, or narrow spaces.

Which interior design styles suit a Kilim rug?

Kilim rugs are incredibly versatile and complement a wide range of interior design styles, including:
✅ Bohemian – Their bright colours and ethnic patterns make them a perfect match for free-spirited, bohemian spaces.
✅ Scandinavian – The minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian interiors pairs well with the simple, flat weave and natural materials of Kilim rugs.
✅Vintage – Kilim rugs enhance the charm of vintage spaces and look stunning alongside antique furniture.
✅ Modern – In modern, minimalist interiors, a Kilim can provide an eye-catching contrast with its vivid colours and geometric designs.
✅ Classic – The cheerful yet refined colour schemes of Kilim rugs can add warmth and enhance the elegance of traditional classic interiors.
✅ Eclectic – Kilim rugs are ideal for eclectic interiors, where they can be mixed and matched with different styles, textures, and patterns for a dynamic, layered look.

Is a Kilim rug worth buying as an investment?

Yes, purchasing a hand-woven, authentic Kilim rug can be a worthwhile investment. Over time, especially in the case of rarer or antique pieces, their value tends to appreciate.

From an investment perspective:
✅ Authentic, hand-woven Kilim rugs can increase in value over the years, particularly if they are well-preserved.
✅ The market value of old, antique Kilims often continues to rise, as they become increasingly rare and sought-after.
✅ When properly cared for, Kilim rugs can be passed down through generations, maintaining both their aesthetic and monetary value.

What stories do Kilim designs tell?

Traditional Kilim rug patterns often carry hidden messages and symbolic meanings, reflecting the beliefs, hopes, and traditions of the weavers and their communities. Common motifs and their interpretations include:

• Diamond shapes: Symbolise protection and good fortune, often believed to guard the household from negative influences.
• Deer or goat motifs: Represent fertility, prosperity, and abundance, reflecting the importance of livestock in traditional nomadic life.
• Continuous patterns: Symbolise the eternity and continuity of life, often seen as a wish for longevity and harmony.
• Bird motifs (common in Turkish Kilims): Represent freedom, happiness, and the connection between heaven and earth.

Many Kilim rugs carry unique messages, woven by individual artisans to reflect personal stories, tribal identities, or significant life events. Each piece can be seen as a visual narrative of the weaver's experiences and cultural heritage.

Why are Kilim rugs made double-sided?

Kilim rugs are flat-woven, resulting in a reversible design, where both sides display the pattern almost identically. This feature serves a practical purpose:
If one side becomes frayed, stained, or worn, the rug can simply be flipped over, extending its usable life. This clever and practical tradition originated among nomadic tribes, who needed durable and versatile furnishings that could withstand harsh living conditions and constant relocation. The double-sided nature of Kilim rugs makes them both economical and long-lasting.

Is there a spiritual meaning to Kilim rugs?

In many cultures, hand-woven Kilim rugs are believed to hold spiritual significance. As they weave, artisans are thought to embed positive energy, blessings, and well-wishes into each knot and pattern. Some tribal Kilim rugs also include protective motifs, believed to bring luck, ward off evil, and offer protection to the home and its inhabitants. For many, a Kilim is more than just a decorative piece; it is a spiritual object that connects the weaver's intention with the life of the household it serves.

What is the largest Kilim ever made?

One of the largest hand-woven Kilim rugs ever created was made in Iran, covering an area of over 1,200 square meters! This monumental piece was specially woven for a large mosque, and dozens of weavers worked simultaneously to complete it. The project showcased not only the artisans' exceptional craftsmanship but also the cultural significance of Kilim weaving in the region.

How can a Kilim rug be used in an unusual way?

A Kilim is not just for the floor! Thanks to its versatility and artistic value, it can be used in creative and unconventional ways:
✅ As a tapestry – Hang it on a large wall as a unique decorative statement piece.
✅ As a furniture cover – Use it to cover an armchair, sofa, or bench, adding texture and colour to the room.
✅ As a Kilim bag or cushion cover – Fashionable, handcrafted accessories that bring an ethnic touch to modern interiors.
✅ As a headboard over the bed – Creates a distinctive bohemian or ethnic atmosphere in the bedroom.
✅ Other creative uses – Kilim textiles are also used to make indoor slippers, saddlebags, vests, and blankets, reflecting their traditional role in nomadic and rural life.

Is there a "secret" Kilim pattern or symbol?

Yes, some old Kilim rugs feature „hidden messages” and symbols, often woven intentionally by the artisans to convey personal stories or cultural beliefs. Examples include:

✅ Hearts or diamonds – Symbolising love, affection, or marriage wishes.

✅ Snake patterns – Believed to offer protection from evil spirits or bad luck.

✅ Small marks or symbols along the edges – Sometimes these are secret initials or personal messages from the weaver, subtly hidden within the design.

These ancient symbols and patterns continue to fascinate collectors and enthusiasts today. Some carpet dealers and historians even share special stories and legends about particular rugs, adding to their cultural and sentimental value.

Is it true that Kilims can "tell" their age?

Yes! The colour and condition of an old Kilim can often reveal clues about its age and history:

• If a Kilim appears faded or if some of the fibres have thinned, it likely indicates that the rug has been used and cherished by many generations.
• Naturally faded dyes in certain areas suggest prolonged exposure to sunlight over the years.
• In some cases, darker sections of the rug may be the result of specific weaving techniques, where artisans intentionally created layered colours or tonal variations that only become more apparent with time and use.

Each sign of ageing on a Kilim tells part of its unique story, reflecting both its practical use and its cultural journey. These signs are immediately noticed by collectors or valuers.

Which famous people have used Kilim rugs?

Kilim rugs have long been admired by collectors, artists, and designers for their timeless beauty, handcrafted quality, and cultural significance. Some famous individuals who are known to have used or appreciated Kilim rugs include:

✅ Pablo Picasso – It is said that he owned several Kilim rugs in his home, finding their bold designs and geometric patterns a source of inspiration for his artwork.

✅ Yves Saint Laurent – The iconic fashion designer decorated both the floors and walls of his villa in Morocco with Kilim rugs, incorporating their vibrant colours and ethnic motifs into his personal space.

✅ Steve Jobs – In an interview, Jobs mentioned that as a minimalist, he was drawn to the simple yet unique aesthetic of handmade rugs, including Kilims, appreciating their authentic craftsmanship and natural materials.

These examples highlight how Kilim rugs continue to appeal to those with a keen eye for design, art, and heritage, transcending time and cultural boundaries.

Can a Kilim rug be inherited?

Yes! A well-maintained, original Kilim rug can be preserved and passed down through generations. Thanks to the durability of wool and the longevity of natural dyes, these rugs often remain in excellent condition for decades. Many families keep Kilim rugs as cherished heirlooms, not only because of their lasting quality, but also due to their unique history and cultural significance. Over time, the value of old, handmade Kilim rugs often increases, making them both a sentimental and valuable inheritance.

Does Kilim "fashion" exist?

Yes! Kilim rugs have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, largely due to the rise of bohemian and vintage interior design trends. Interior designers frequently incorporate them into modern and minimalist spaces because they offer:

✅ A unique, handcrafted appeal that brings warmth and texture to any room.

✅ Construction from natural materials, such as wool and cotton, aligning with sustainable and eco-friendly design principles.

✅ The ability to brighten and enliven neutral-coloured interiors with their vibrant patterns and colours.

Kilim rugs have become a staple in contemporary interior design, appreciated for their timeless aesthetic and versatility.

Were Kilims among the first "hidden message" rugs in the world?

Indeed! In many ancient tribal cultures, Kilim rugs were considered a "language without writing", much like early cave drawings. Through intricate patterns and symbols, weavers communicated personal stories, expressed desires, or delivered warnings that were woven into the fabric of the rug. These design motifs were often passed down through generations, preserving the history and traditions of the tribe. Each Kilim rug could carry secret messages, known only to the weaver’s community, making them a unique form of storytelling and cultural expression.

Even today, these ancient patterns continue to fascinate collectors and historians, who search for the meanings behind the symbols found in old tribal Kilims.

Some Kilim rugs hide messages of Love

In regions such as Turkey and Iran, there was a long-standing tradition where young women would weave secret messages of love into Kilim rugs made for their future husbands or families. If a girl was in love with someone but was unable to express her feelings openly, she would incorporate special symbols or specific colours into the rug’s design. If the young man recognised and understood these hidden symbols, he would know that the girl reciprocated his feelings. This subtle form of communication served as a private language, conveying emotions and intentions in a time when direct expression of love was often restricted by societal norms.

Kelims were also used as "protective amulets"

In many tribal cultures, Kilim rugs were believed to serve as protective amulets, capable of warding off evil spirits and protecting the home. As a result, certain symbols and motifs frequently appear in traditional Kilim designs:

🔺🧿 Triangles and eye shapes – Thought to protect the house from the "evil eye", a malevolent gaze believed to bring misfortune.

🐍 Snake motifs – Represent protection from trouble and illness, as snakes symbolised both danger and healing in many ancient traditions.

🌞 Sun and star symbols – Woven to bring good luck, prosperity, and to radiate positive energy and light into the household.

These protective symbols were more than decorative; they reflected the spiritual beliefs and cultural practices of the weavers’ communities. Kilim rugs were not only practical furnishings but also served as spiritual safeguards, offering comfort and security in daily life.

How long does it take to make a hand woven Kelim rug?

Hand-woven Kilim rugs with intricate patterns can take months, or even up to a year, to complete. For larger pieces, several weavers often work on the same rug at once. Due to the complex weaving techniques, they are sometimes only able to produce a few centimetres per day. This meticulous process is one of the reasons why authentic, hand-woven Kilim rugs are more expensive than mass-produced versions. The time, skill, and craftsmanship invested in each piece make them valuable works of art, rather than simple floor coverings.

Are There valuable antique Kilim rugs?

Yes! Some Kilim rugs are so rare and valuable that they are preserved in world-renowned museums. Certain antique Kilims are considered masterpieces of textile art, and can be admired in famous collections such as:
🏛 The British Museum (London) – Housing centuries-old, hand-crafted Turkish and Iranian Kilims.
🏛 The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York) – Featuring rare, antique nomadic Kilims from various tribal cultures.
🏛 The Topkapi Palace Museum (Istanbul) – Showcasing historical Ottoman-era Kilim rugs that reflect the region’s rich weaving traditions.

These exceptional pieces are so valuable that some have been appraised at tens of thousands of euros, making them highly prized by both collectors and historians.

One of the ancient forms of Kilims is the "Sumak" technique

Among the different types of Kilim rugs, there is a special variety made using the Sumak (or Soumak) weaving technique. This method is more complex than traditional flat weaving and involves wrapping additional yarns around the warp threads. The result is a design with a more textured, embossed appearance, offering greater depth and detail. Sumak rugs are typically heavier and more durable than standard Kilims, and because of the intricacy of the technique, they are often more expensive. These pieces are highly prized for their artistic craftsmanship and rich patterns.

Even space explorers use Kilim patterns!

It may come as a surprise, but a team of NASA researchers has studied the geometric patterns found in ancient Kilim rugs. They discovered that these traditional designs often display mathematically precise layouts, which can inspire the construction of modern space structures.
The symmetry and interlocking shapes in Kilim patterns are being explored as models for designing lightweight yet strong frameworks, potentially applicable in the development of space habitats and satellite components. This fascinating intersection between ancient art and cutting-edge science highlights the timeless ingenuity of Kilim weavers.

The world's most expensive Kelim is over 200 years old and sold for a record price

One of the rarest and most valuable Kilim rugs ever sold at auction was a hand-woven antique piece over 200 years old. In 2013, it was auctioned in New York for nearly $2 million, setting a record price for a Kilim rug. This exceptional carpet was part of a renowned Persian rug collection, prized for its historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship, and remarkable condition. Its sale reflects the high value collectors place on authentic, antique Kilim rugs, particularly those with a provenance of cultural and artistic importance.

Can Kilim rugs "change" over time?

Yes! One of the unique characteristics of old Kilim rugs is how their colours change naturally as the years pass. For example:

• Indigo (blue) dyes tend to become deeper and richer over time.
• Red and orange tones typically soften, developing a warm, mellow patina.

These natural changes create a unique visual effect and give antique Kilim rugs an irreplaceable beauty that newer carpets cannot replicate. This aged patina is highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts, as it reflects the rug’s history, authenticity, and enduring craftsmanship.

The first Kelims were made by nomads more than 3,000 years ago

Kilim rugs are among the oldest textiles in human history! Archaeological findings suggest that Kilim-like rugs were first woven by nomadic tribes in Central Asia over 3,000 years ago.
At that time, Kilims served multiple purposes beyond floor coverings:

• They were used as blankets and wall hangings to provide insulation.
• As saddle covers, they protected riders and animals from the cold in the mountains and deserts.
• They also functioned as practical furnishings for tents and mobile homes, reflecting the resourcefulness of nomadic life.

These early Kilims highlight the innovative spirit and artistic traditions of ancient communities, many of which continue to inspire modern Kilim weaving today.

Explore the CarpetDepo Kelim rug collection!

If you are interested in adding a timeless, authentic Kilim rug to your home, explore the wide selection available in the CarpetDepo Kilim rug Category. Whether you’re looking for a traditional design or a vintage-inspired piece, CarpetDepo offers hand-woven Kilim rugs that showcase the beauty and heritage of this ancient art form.