An authentic Moroccan rug is a true treasure, but buying a good one isn’t as easy as it sounds. There are many counterfeits on the market given the great demand, so while shopping around, there are many things to consider to ensure top quality. You want a durable, beautiful product that will stand the test of time, in fact, the best rugs age quite well. If your travels have you stopping in Marrakech you’ll find the souks are popping at the seams with rugs.
The city of Marrakech, where ancient traditions and modern influences meet to create a captivating tapestry of culture, has long been a paradise for rug enthusiasts, offering an abundance of choices that showcase the rich heritage of Moroccan craftsmanship. Whether you're an interior design aficionado or simply seeking a unique piece to adorn your home, the journey of buying a rug in Marrakech promises an unforgettable experience but also an overwhelming experience.
Let's delve into the world of 3x5 Moroccan rugs and provide you with essential tips to make an informed purchase.
Understanding Moroccan Rugs
At their essence, Moroccan-style rugs are textile floor coverings meticulously woven by Morocco's indigenous traditional communities. The primary material used in these rugs is wool, lending them a luxurious softness and comfort. Moroccan rugs represent a perfect blend of luxury and cultural heritage. Their origins date back to 622 AD when Berber women in Northern Africa and the Sahara began weaving them in Morocco.
A true rug from Morocco will come from one of the forty-five Berber tribe regions of the country. The majority of what you'll find in Bazars is made by one of Morocco's forty-five distinct Berber tribes. Each one has a unique style and every Moroccan Berber rug is handmade on a loom. Of course, they are all handmade on a loom, usually by a female artisan. Women are more likely to do it in their spare time. Rugs can take anywhere from 10 days to 6 months to complete, depending on size, complexity, and the amount of time she has available. Rugs first and foremost are used in homes or for celebrations.
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Each tribe has its distinct rug, which complicates the choice to be made. Many people go for looks and what is popular. But if you want to learn more about these beautiful decor pieces, we’ll share more information in this article and our team of rug experts will always be happy to help you source and design the authentic Moroccan rug of your dream.
Marrakech - Shopping for Moroccan Rugs (& buying one!)
Planning Your Purchase
If you are shopping your rug in Morocco, go prepared. Plan ahead as to the size and style. Learn about metric measures. The dimensions of US versus Moroccan rugs will vary, even if they are the traditional rectangles. Moroccan rugs tend to be more rectangular in fact. It isn’t a bad idea to think about colors. Look up such rugs online to get an idea of the range. There are hundreds to assess. Most styles have particular names. Of course, set a budget in advance so you won’t get carried away. Use a credit card if you must, but there can be a fee. Set a final price or at least a range. Shipping always costs extra. It is common and you won’t want to do it yourself in a foreign country.
If you’re planning to shop for a rug don’t go empty-handed. You will want to have an idea of the size of the rug you want or need. This is very important. Keep in mind sizes are done in metric and most rugs are not made in the same dimensions as western rugs. You also should have some ideas of colors and designs that you like. A Pinterest search will pull up hundreds of different Moroccan rugs. Familiarize yourself with some of the names of styles you like. Also, have an idea of your budget and what you want to spend. It’s easier to pay for things with cash than a card as there’s often a surcharge for using a credit card. If this is the case make sure to work in the charge to your final price.
Bargaining Tips
If you are shopping for your rug in Morocco, it is traditional and quite acceptable to bargain in the souk. No one expects you to accept the given price. So try bargaining and get a “deal”. The salesman will work with you as he knows his bottom line. Start by offering as much as two-thirds off the initial price and expect to increase your bid. You will end up somewhere in the middle between the highest and lowest end of the price spectrum. A tip in bargaining is to look uninterested and willing to walk away. Yes, it is a game so learn to play your part. If you look excited, the salesman has his hook on you. Vendors are smart at observing customers’ “tics”. They will keep you guessing but stay in the higher price realm. If you look nonchalant, he will have to work at his trade. Feel free to leave and return.
Here are some key tips for bargaining:
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- Do not, I repeat DO NOT accept the price offered to you in the shop. Bargaining here is part of the game. You should eventually expect to meet somewhere around 50% of the original price. If you know you are already out of your league at 50% off the original price - move on.
- Love a rug? Don’t let the shopkeeper catch on to it or you’ve lost one of your biggest bargaining chips. Instead, act nonchalant. Even look at more rugs so that you can eventually come back to the one you really want. Also, don’t be afraid to walk away.
- If you’ve agreed on a price you really shouldn’t back out. When you finally do commit it’s in really bad form to then change your mind and walk away. Wait to agree completely until you are 100% sure.
- For those people who find bargaining very uncomfortable, remember you’re not going to offend the salesperson, even if they act offended. You don’t have to be rude but also don’t be afraid to make a deal that works for BOTH of you.
Assessing Quality and Authenticity
Not all rugs are old or “antique” even if it is claimed. Beware of fakes. You won’t always be able to spot one. Antiques are higher in demand and cost more. It takes a lot of experience to tell the difference, so if it matters, learn the ropes. Or just be cautious.
If you walk into a shop and are told a carpet is an antique Moroccan rug don’t automatically trust it, especially if you don’t know the difference. There is a whole industry of “aging” carpets that will be sold as antiques. If you really want to buy an antique you need to be sure to do your research, so you know what you’re getting. Chances are also pretty good you won’t find rugs here that date beyond the 1920’s or 1930’s. Even in the best condition, they’ll have natural fade and the fabric will be frayed. Remember rugs are used for practical, not decorative purposes. If you don’t know what you’re buying and don’t have a lot of experience with antique rugs I would encourage you to be very careful. Like with anything if you don’t know what you’re buying you can’t really judge the value of that item. For your purchase, you might consider something that you simply love vs.
If it’s possible, we recommend testing the material of your rug. A fine Moroccan rug is made of wool. It should never be synthetic. Take an edge and hold a lighter up to it. It won’t light up or will go out if it is wool. It’s a great technique when shopping for antique rugs.
Authentic Moroccan rugs are made from genuine wool. One way to tell if you’re getting a real wool rug or a synthetic is to hold up a lighter to one of the loose edges. If it doesn’t light or put itself out it's made of wool. If it ignites it’s synthetic.
Pricing and Ethical Considerations
Rug quality varies and so does the price. Expect to pay for age, style or pattern, and condition. They are the essential factors that bear on a fair price. It matters where the rug was made and the current trends. All in all, a small rug can run from 1000-4000 Moroccan dirhams ($100 to $400). However, on average, a rug costs from 3500-9000 Moroccan dirhams ($350 to $900), shipping not included. At the top of the range is a vintage Berber or large rug. They can top 10,000-25,000 dirhams and more. Don’t expect a bargain.
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Here's a general price range:
| Rug Type | Price Range (Moroccan Dirhams) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Rug | 1000-4000 | $100-$400 |
| Average Rug | 3500-9000 | $350-$900 |
| Vintage Berber/Large Rug | 10,000-25,000+ | $1000+ |
You may have heard of the famous women’s rug co-ops. It is a myth actually. Not all rugs are made by female artisans. If you can identify a rug coming from such a place, you have struck gold. However, in these co-ops, the women are paid a low fee and you are participating in disrespect. Paying more doesn’t help. The extra money doesn’t go to the source. Women get a fixed price and that’s it.
Here's a critical point to consider when buying rugs in Marrakech:
- The women are getting a pittance of the sale. The women get a fixed price (trust me it’s not much) for their rugs and whether it sells for that price (not likely) or 100x more, they make the same amount.
Little Moroccan Things is one of the very few rug shops that are founded by a woman of Moroccan origins who works directly with cooperatives and makes sure they are paid competitive wages.
Navigating Common Scams
Do not believe anyone on the street who tells you specific shops or alleys are closed (this applies to almost every shop or attraction in Marrakech) or not open, or anything of the sort. The person will most likely tell you this, and then "offer" to take you to a different shop that they work with, requesting (or forcing) you to tip them for the convenience of taking you. If you ever happen to be approached by these scammers, it's always best to assertively inform them that you will report their activities to the authorities.
Caring for Your Moroccan Rug
Care is vital for a precious antique Moroccan rug. Spots will come so just dab them with soap and water and let dry. Larger spots may need professional cleaning.
Shipping a rug from Morocco is possible and while you can handle this yourself by visiting the post office it can be a frustrating process that takes quite a bit of time. If you can work shipping into the deal with your rug it will be much easier for you.
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