Top 20 Questions About Buying Handknotted Persian & Oriental Rugs
Buying a handknotted rug is not just a purchase — it’s an investment in art, culture, and craftsmanship. Below, our experts at RugUs.com answer the most common questions customers ask before buying a Persian or Oriental rug.
1. What makes a Persian or Oriental rug valuable?
The value of a handmade rug depends on knot density, materials (wool, silk, or cotton), origin, design, and condition. Authentic rugs are handknotted, not machine-made, and often take months or even years to complete.
2. How can I tell if a rug is handmade?
Flip the rug and look at the back. If the pattern is visible and the knots vary slightly, it’s handmade. Perfectly uniform knots or a rubber backing indicate a machine-made rug.
3. Which regions produce the finest Persian rugs?
The most famous weaving cities include Tabriz, Isfahan, Ghom, Kashan, Nain, Kerman, and Sarough (Farahan). Each region has its own signature style, color palette, and knotting technique.
4. Are handknotted rugs durable?
Yes — a well-made Persian rug can last 100 years or more. Wool and silk fibers naturally repel dirt and are highly resilient. Proper care ensures longevity for generations.
5. What materials are used in luxury handmade rugs?
The most common materials are:
- Wool: soft, durable, and natural.
- Silk: adds shine, finesse, and high value.
- Cotton: used for the foundation (warp and weft).
Some exclusive pieces are 100% silk or wool & silk blends.
6. Why do handmade rugs cost more than machine-made rugs?
Because they are entirely handwoven — each knot tied by hand. A large Persian rug may contain over 1 million knots, requiring months or years to complete. You’re paying for craftsmanship, culture, and lasting beauty.
7. Are handmade rugs a good investment?
Absolutely. High-quality Persian rugs often appreciate in value over time — especially antique, silk, and rare regional rugs. They are functional works of art passed down for generations.
8. How should I care for a handknotted rug?
- Vacuum gently in the direction of the pile.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or steam cleaning.
- Rotate every 6–12 months for even wear.
- Use professional hand-wash cleaning every few years.
9. Can I place a Persian rug in high-traffic areas?
Yes, but choose a wool rug for durability. Silk rugs are best suited for low-traffic or decorative spaces such as living rooms or bedrooms.
10. What size rug should I buy?
Consider furniture placement and room layout:
- Living room: large enough for furniture front legs to rest on the rug.
- Dining room: extend at least 60 cm beyond the table.
- Bedroom: place under or at the foot of the bed for balance and comfort.
11. Are all Persian rugs red?
No — while traditional Persian rugs often feature deep reds and blues, modern designs include neutrals, creams, greys, and minimalistic tones. We offer both classic and contemporary collections.
12. Do handmade rugs shed?
High-quality rugs shed very little. Minimal shedding is normal for the first few months — it’s just excess wool fibers left from weaving.
13. What is the difference between Persian and Oriental rugs?
Persian rugs are made in Iran (Persia) and known for refined, intricate designs.
Oriental rugs include all handknotted rugs from regions like Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, China, and the Caucasus.
14. Are your rugs ethically sourced?
Yes. All our rugs are handmade under fair working conditions following sustainable and ethical trade practices. We support traditional artisans and preserve cultural heritage.
15. What does “knot density” mean?
It measures how many knots are tied per square inch (KPSI). Higher knot density means finer detail and longer weaving time. For example:
- 100–200 KPSI: Standard fine wool rugs
- 400+ KPSI: Silk or museum-grade pieces
16. How do I know if a rug will fit my style?
We recommend choosing based on:
- Room lighting (warm vs. cool)
- Furniture color
- Pattern type (geometric, floral, abstract)
Our team offers free design consultation via phone or chat.
17. Can I get a certificate of authenticity?
Yes, all our rugs come with a Certificate of Authenticity upon request, verifying origin, age, and handmade quality.
18. Do you offer worldwide shipping?
Yes. We offer free shipping in the USA and fast worldwide delivery on request. Delivery typically takes 1–7 days depending on location.
19. What if I don’t love my rug?
We believe in “Love it or return it.” If you’re not satisfied, return it within 14 or 31 days (depending on region) for a full refund — no fees, no hassle.
20. Why buy from RugUs.com?
Because we combine:
- Generations of expertise (since 1876)
- Direct sourcing from weaving regions
- Certified authenticity and sustainability
- Luxury quality at fair, competitive prices
Final Thoughts
Owning a handmade rug is like owning a piece of history. Every thread tells a story — of tradition, artistry, and human touch. Whether it’s a Persian silk masterpiece or a tribal Gabbeh, each rug is unique, timeless, and made to last for generations.