Frequently asked and interesting questions about oriental rugs (FAQ)

The fascinating world of oriental carpets raises many questions about their origins, materials, value and characteristics. Many people wonder how to tell the difference between hand-knotted rugs and machine made carpets, what factors determine their merchandise, or what secrets their designs hold. We've collected some of the most common and interesting questions about oriental carpets - whether it's technical knowledge, history or surprising facts. If you want to better understand the significance of these works of art, you'll find all the information you need here!

What is an oriental rug?

An oriental rug is a handmade carpet traditionally made in the Middle East, South Asia or North Africa. The most common types include Persian, Turkish, Afghan, Pakistani and Indian rugs. They often feature intricate designs, rich colours and high quality materials such as wool, silk or cotton.

What types of oriental rugs are there?

Oriental rugs can be classified into many types, but the most common categories are:

• Persian rugs: Originating in Iran, they are famous for their detailed, hand-knotted designs. Although nowadays "Persian carpet" is also a broad term, covering classic carpets with various oriental motifs.
• Turkish rugs: They are usually thicker and often decorated with geometric or floral patterns.
• Afghan rugs: Made from darker shades of wool, often dominated by red and black.
• Pakistani carpets: Mainly geometric designs, made from fine wool and cotton weft yarns.
• Kilim rugs: Although a separate category, many are classified as oriental rugs. They are flat-woven, lightweight rugs made by weaving from 100% wool.
• Chinese and Tibetan rugs: These have a thicker weave and incorporate traditional oriental motifs.

What is the difference between handmade rugs and machine made carpets?

Hand-knotted rugs are made by hand, using a traditional technique, and each knot is fixed separately to the weft of the rug. This method is time consuming, but very durable and produces unique patterns.

Machine-made carpets, on the other hand, use modern manufacturing techniques, are faster and cheaper to produce, but are less durable and lack the unique character of hand-made carpets.

Why is a handmade rug more expensive?

handmade rugs are more expensive because:

• They can take months or even years to make.
• They use high quality materials (wool, silk, cotton).
• Each piece is considered a unique work of art.
• The craftsmanship and traditional techniques add value to the carpet.
• They retain their beauty for decades, even generations.

What are oriental rugs made from?

Oriental rugs are most commonly made from the following materials:

• Wool: A durable and natural material with excellent wear resistance.
• Silk: An extremely fine and luxurious material with a lustrous surface, suitable for creating detailed patterns.
• Cotton: Often used as the weft yarn for carpets, cotton is strong and durable.

How can you tell if a carpet is a real oriental rug?

Genuine oriental rugs can be identified by the following characteristics:

• Hand knotting or weaving: The uneven knotting on the back is one of the surest signs.
• Unique pattern: Because they are handmade, no two pieces are exactly alike.
• Quality materials: Real oriental rugs are made from natural materials (wool, silk, cotton).
• Colour shades: Plant-based dyes result in natural, vibrant colours that will patina over time.

For more information on how to recognise an oriental rug, click HERE!

Can furniture damage the oriental rug?

If the load is concentrated at one point on a wool rug, it can push the fibres of the wool rug down hard, but it is important to know that the fibres will regenerate themselves over time as the rug is used. This is due to the grease content of the wool, which gives the material elasticity. Permanent wear can be avoided by turning the carpet from time to time, so that pressure is applied at different points.

✅ Tip: Place shims under the feet of furniture to distribute the weight of the furniture

Can I vacuum the oriental carpet?

Yes, you should always take proper care of your oriental carpets. One of the ways to do this is vacuuming. An important rule is to always vacuum in the direction of the fibres, and to go over the wool carpet on a lower setting.

✅ Tip: The low setting is to protect the knots.

Can I use a robot vacuum cleaner on my oriental rug?

Brush-type robot vacuum cleaners should be avoided as they can damage the fibres of an oriental carpet as they clean in a circular pattern rather than in one direction. However, a brushless robot vacuum cleaner can be used, but only on the lowest power setting.

✅ Tip: There is also a folk method of care: in summer, lay the surface of the wool rug to be cleaned on top of dry and clean garden grass, then pull it back and forth a few times in two directions.

How to determine the value of an oriental rug?

The value of an oriental carpet is influenced by several factors:

• Knot density (knots per square metre: the denser the knotting, the more valuable the carpet.
• Used materials: Silk carpets, for example, can be much more expensive than wool carpets.
• Craftsmanship: Hand-knotted, detailed designs are more valuable.
• Age and condition: Antique oriental rugs are highly sought after.
• Place of origin: Carpets from some famous carpet centres (e.g. Tabriz, Isfahan, Nain) are of higher value.

What is knot density and why is it important?

A knot density indicates the number of knots in a given area (e.g. per square centimetre or per square metre).

• Low density: (~50,000 knots/m²) Less detailed pattern, cheaper.
• Medium knot density: (~150,000-300,000 knots/m²) Better quality.
• High knot density: (~500,000-1,000,000+ knots/m²) Detailed patterns, luxury category.

Why is there sometimes a price difference between two oriental rugs of similar size?

The following factors can cause a price difference between two similar oriental rugs:

• The hand knotting technique (Gheordes, Senne).
• Different materials used (e.g. silk is more expensive than wool).
• Different knot density and elaboration.
• Country of origin
• Unique or "mass-produced" piece (although all oriental rugs are unique, there are similar designs)
• The origin of the carpet (e.g. whether it comes from a famous carpet-making workshop).
• Natural or chemical dyeing

What colours and patterns are available on Oriental rugs?

The colours and patterns of oriental rugs vary from region to region:

• Persian rugs: Floral, medallion, arabesque and vine designs.
• Turkish carpets: Geometric patterns, bold contrasting colours.
• Afghan rugs: Dark red and deep burgundy-black dominate, with medallion, floral and continuous designs
• Pakistani carpets: predominantly burgundy or beige main colours with continuous patterns.
• Kilim rugs: Bright and colourful floral or diamond patterns.

What does a carpet design mean, does it have a symbolic meaning?

Yes, oriental carpet designs can have a symbolic meaning:

• Tree of Life pattern: Symbol of long life and wisdom.
• Medallion pattern: A focus on harmony.
• Flower patterns: Symbolizing luck and prosperity.
• Geometric shapes: Also used as spiritual and protective symbols.

How do I choose the right size of carpet?

Choosing the right size depends on the size of the room and the layout of the furniture. Here are some guidelines:

• Living room: Placing the front legs of sofas or armchairs in front of the rug will create a harmonious effect. Ideal sizes: 160x240, 200x300 cm or 250x350 cm.
• Dining room: Cover the entire area of the table and chairs so that the chairs remain on the carpet when pushed back.
• Bedroom: A carpet placed in front of or beside the bed (e.g. 140x200 cm) gives a warmer and more comfortable feel. Alternatively, you can place smaller runners on either side of the bed.
• Corridor, hallway: runner rugs (e.g. 80x200 or 80x300 cm) are ideal for narrow spaces.

✅ Tip: Measure the available space so that you have a minimum and a maximum size.

How can I tell from the image what the true colour and pattern of the carpet is?

Online images may vary slightly due to screen settings and lighting. It is worth considering the following:

• Photos from different angles: The CarpetDepo carpet online store shows several photos of the carpet from different angles, because the carpet is light on one side and dark on the other. We hope this helps you make your decision!
• Videos or zoomable images: These give a more detailed insight into the texture and colour shades of the rug.
• Customer reviews: If other previous customers' reviews have shown that the colours of the carpet they have bought are close to reality, this can help you to make a more accurate colour judgement.
• Ask for advice or more photos! CarpetDepo online carpet shop customer service can give you more information about the rug.

✅ Tip: If you are unsure about the colour, ask us for more photos by email. We'll be happy to send you some!

What are the price ranges available for oriental rugs?

There is a wide range of prices for oriental rugs. The most important factors in determining the price are the size of the carpet, the density of the knots, the origin and the quality of the raw material.

✅ Tip: Always ask for detailed information about the factors that influence the price and decide not only on price but also on quality.

Can I order a custom made oriental rug?

Yes, you can order custom-made oriental rugs. In this case the customer can specify the size, pattern, colour and material.

• Custom orders can take up to several months to produce, as they are handmade.
• The prices for custom-made rugs may be higher.

✅ Tip: If you have the opportunity, take photos of the room, measure the location where you want the carpet to be placed and email them to our experts for a more accurate recommendation.

Can you advise me on which carpet would suit my home?

Yes, CarpetDepo employs experienced carpet consultants who can help you choose the carpet that best suits your room and interior style.

✅ Tip: If you have the opportunity, take photos of the room and bring them with you so that our experts can make a more accurate recommendation.

Can I hang the oriental carpet on the wall?

Yes, the oriental rug was originally used to keep nomadic tents warm.

• One of the most popular techniques for attaching it to the wall is to use Velcro. Attach one half of the Velcro strip to the top of the carpet. It is important to put an intermediate material between the carpet and the Velcro. Fix a strip of wood to the wall where you want to place the tapestry and nail the other half of the Velcro to this strip of wood.
• Carpet clips are also the choice of many carpet shops for displaying larger carpets, as it is a very practical solution for fixing to the wall. A rod is placed on the wall, to which the carpet clips are attached.
• Of course, we also have customers who simply nail the carpet to the wall.
• You can find countless other techniques for hanging your carpet on the wall on the Internet.

✅ Tip: It is very important that each step in the installation of the carpet can be easily undone without damaging the carpet. This will ensure that you can move it to another wall or possibly put it on the floor later.

How should I store my oriental rug properly if I am not going to use it for a while?

If a rug will not be used for a long period of time, proper storage is important:

• Clean and completely dry the rug before storing.
• Roll it up, not fold it, to avoid creases.
• Use moth repellent or lavender to protect against insects.
• Store in a dry, well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight and moisture.

✅ Tip: If you are going to store your rug for a long period of time, you should open it up and air it out at least once a year.

Can I get an additional discount on the discount price of the Oriental carpet!

Bargaining is part of Oriental people's shopping habits, you can do it in person at our carpet warehouse.

✅ Tip: When you shop online, sign up for our newsletter and we will send you a coupon code to get an additional 10% discount off the carpet prices

What special oriental rugs have been given to famous people?

• Queen Elizabeth II received a hand-knotted Iranian rug as an official gift from the Shah of Persia.
• Putin received a giant-sized Turkmen carpet during a state visit.
• Donald Trump held a handmade Afghan rug in the Oval Office of the White House as a diplomatic gift.
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Can Persian carpets really be worth a fortune?

Yes, they can! A rare handmade Persian rug can be worth millions of dollars.

• The most expensive Oriental rug ever sold was a 17th century Iranian Persian rug from Iran, that was sold for more than $33 million at auction in 2013.
• A well-maintained antique Oriental rug is also an excellent investment, as it becomes increasingly rare and valuable over the years.
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Why do some oriental rugs have a " fault " in the design?

Hand-knotted oriental rugs often have deliberate faults. Why is this?

• In Islamic culture, many people believe that only God can create something perfect, so the masters deliberately make a small mistake in the design of the rug so that it is not perfect.
• Some nomadic tribes leave their own 'signature' on the carpet, so you can tell who made it.

Which country is the "King of the Oriental Carpets"?

Most experts agree that Iran (Persia) is the home of oriental rugs. Iranian carpets are famous for their fine workmanship, rich colours and intricate designs. Although other countries also produce stunning oriental rugs (Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, India), Iranian Persian rugs are considered the most valuable on the world market.

Why is it said that oriental carpets are "alive"?

In many Eastern cultures, handmade rugs are considered to be "living" objects because:

✔ All the knots are tied by hand - so the energy of the human touch remains in them.

✔ The colours change over time - the natural dyes make the carpet constantly "evolve" and patinate.

✔ "Breathes" - Wool and silk absorb and release moisture from the air, allowing the carpet to "adapt" to its environment.

This is why many people believe that a good quality oriental rug is not just an object, but a lifelong companion.

Is there a guarantee for rugs bought online?

CarpetDepo carpet online shop offers a guarantee on its products:

• Length of the guarantee: Usually 1 year, but it can be longer for premium rugs.
• What does the guarantee cover? For example, manufacturing defects, material defects, but not necessarily wear and tear or misuse.
• How can it be enforced? It is important to read the terms and conditions of the guarantee and keep your proof of purchase.

✅ Tip: Read more about the guarantee HERE!

How can I return the carpet if I don't like it?

For online purchases, the right of return is guaranteed by law in most countries.

• You usually have 14-30 days to return it.
• It is important that the rug is undamaged and clean.
• The cost of returning the carpet is paid by CarpetDepo.

✅ Tip: Always read the return policy and if you are unsure, ask our customer service before you buy. You can do it HERE!

What payment methods are available?

We typically offer the following payment methods:

• Payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro)
• PayPal
• Bank transfer
• Cash on delivery (not available for all countries)

✅ Tip: If you are buying a higher value rug, you can check our company or our money back guarantee. For more information about us, click HERE!

How fast is the delivery?

The delivery time depends:

• The delivery time depends on the shipping company and the destination country as all our products are in stock.

On average:

• International delivery (within the EU): 3-5 days.

✅ Tip: Always check the expected delivery time and any additional charges.

How much does it cost to deliver within Europe?

• We offer free delivery above a certain value.
• Delivery costs vary from country to country, usually between 7-12 EUR.
• We may charge extra for large or extra heavy rugs.

✅ Tip: If you order more pieces or more valuable rugs, delivery is free. For more information on delivery charges, click HERE!

Is there cash on delivery?

We don't offer cash on delivery in all countries, only where it is provided by the shipping company.

✅ Tip: If you are a first time buyer, check out our customer reviews and the reliability of our business.

Where is the carpet warehouse located?

The exact address and contact details of the CarpetDepo carpet warehouse can be found on the website or on Google Maps. Hungary, Budapest-1113, Daróczi út 2/d

✅ Tip: If you are visiting our beautiful city of Budapest, come and visit us in person during our opening hours (Monday-Friday 10:30-18:00) or make an appointment in advance.