“Moroccan Rug” is a catchall term for a vast array of rug types. Every Moroccan Berber rug is handmade on a loom and the majority you’ll find in shops are made by one of the forty-five distinct Berber tribes in the country, making it an ideal destination for buying Berber rugs in Morocco. Each one has a unique style and it’s most often done by women in their free time. Weaving techniques vary across tribes, regions, and villages.
Since the weaving craft is taught by elders, the style of each tribe or region often reflects the climate, needs, and customs of that particular community. Artisans in the snowy Atlas Mountains specialize in thicker rugs than the artisans who reside in the desert, for example. This variation continues throughout every weave choice-from the animals, the wools are harvested from and the dye ingredients available to the local symbols and traditions. Here’s our guide to the major styles of Moroccan rug types.
Major Styles of Moroccan Rugs
Moroccan rugs range from graphically dense to monochrome, combining bright, saturated shades with natural, muted tones. Each rug reflects the unique flavor of the different Berber tribes.
Flatweave
Flatweave rugs are thin, soft, strong, and full of symbolism. They’re also called “hanbel” or “aknif” in Arabic.
Intricate Hanbel
This style is thought to originate from the area in and around the Village of Tazenakht, a region rich with weaving history. While the majority of this weave is flat, the design accents are either embroidered or have a slightly higher pile, giving this piece texture and dimension. Every design element comes entirely from the artisan’s imagination. The design elements within this technique tend to depict an array of symbolism in the Amazigh culture.
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Kilim
The Kilim style originates from the Middle Atlas Mountain region. These rugs carry symbolism unique to the indigenous tribes weaving them. Many Kilim designs are interpretations of a popular window dressing in Moroccan homes. Some Kilim weaves mimic this style with intricate geometric patterns.
Zanafi
The Zanafi weaving technique comes from the High Atlas Mountains. This technique requires the highest level of skill and concentration. Each row is created with an intricate system of counting. This style is extra special because it's reversible; on each side, the colors of the symbols are inverted. The Zanafi rug is also known for its side tassels but can be woven without them on request.
While the more traditional Zanafis are made in the Southeast, there is a Zanafi technique that has been interpreted by the weavers of the Middle Atlas Mountains in the North. The big difference with this interpretation is that they are not reversible. They also don’t have side tassels.
Zemmour Hanbel
Originating in the Middle Atlas mountains, Zemmour Hanbel rugs are made with the thinnest of sheep's wool yarn. This labyrinth-like weaving technique requires acute focus and skill. As with other intricate weave styles, each symbol in the Zemmour Hanbel design is created with a meticulous system of counting. You’ll always find something new to admire in these detailed pieces.
Kharita/Tazenakht
This rug style has a few different names: Golden Fingers, Kharita ("map" in Arabic) or Tazenakht. This complex weaving technique is usually made by the senior members of the village. The design consists of a maze of geometric shapes that are reflected on both sides, making the weaves reversible. These flatweaves are also incredibly strong and will withstand the test of time.
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Boucherouite
Pronounced boo-shay-reet, these lively pieces are made from yarn, recycled clothing, or even textile scraps, giving them a lush, high pile. Boucherouite rugs are often used in weavers’ own homes.
Handira
Known to Westerners as wedding blankets, Handiras are usually made by a bride’s female relatives or the women of her village. The blankets are a symbolic blessing for the marriage, and after the wedding, they’re often passed on to other couples to continue to share the blessings and joy. Traditionally, brides wore the blankets as capes on their way to the wedding but these days, they’re used to wrap gifts for the newlyweds.
Medium to High Hand-Knot
There are many rug styles that can be classified with the medium to high hand-knot category - like the Boujad, Azilal, Beni Ourain, Beni M'rirt, and Marmoucha styles to name a few. The majority of these rugs come from the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains. The local sheep in these colder climates have a thicker coat to sustain them during the winter months, which impacts the thickness of the wool, and in turn, contributes to the height of the pile.
Low Hand-Knot
The low hand-knot style of rug most often comes from the Southeastern tribes in and around the Siroua region. The pile of these rugs is much shorter than the hand-knot rugs from the north. One significant difference in technique with these rugs is that the artisans usually pre-cut the wool prior to weaving on the loom, while the women in the north cut the wool after looping it around the loom.
Mixed Technique
Mixed weaving techniques are a modern development, where artisans will bring multiple techniques together in one weave. The combinations could be endless, either combining two techniques such as Zanafi and hand-knot, or three techniques, like hand-knot, flatweave, and Zanafi. These rugs usually showcase quite modern designs.
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Glaoui
The Glaoui technique is named after the Glaoua (Glawa) tribe of Southern Morocco. Glaoui is an extremely technical weave as it incorporates three techniques: Hand-weaving, Hand-knotting, and Hand-embroidery.
Vintage
Vintage rugs can come in any style. Most vintage rugs you will find in local Moroccan markets are purchased by traveling brokers, who visit neighboring villages and buy up all the pieces they can in one transaction. Our process is different, as we work directly with the women selling these heirloom pieces. We visit their homes and neighborhoods to see the pieces in person and negotiate face-to-face.
Tuareg Mats
Tuareg Mats are woven by the Taureg tribe. While the Tuareg tribe is part of the Amazigh nation, it stretches across many countries, including parts of Mali, Mauritania, and Burkina Faso to name a few. Tuareg mats are both extremely lightweight and durable, making them great for both floors and wall hanging. The base of a Tuareg mat is reed sourced from the Senegal River. The decorative motifs are woven into the reeds with strips of goat and camel leather. While the leather is usually kept natural, some tribes are known to dye their leather with local plants and spices to derive vibrant red and green hues.
Each mat is one-of-a-kind and tells a unique story from the artisan.
Spotlight on Specific Moroccan Rug Styles
Azilal Rugs
Azilal rugs are made by hand in the rural areas of Morocco using natural dyes and traditional weaving techniques. In fact, many families have been creating these rugs for generations, passing down their knowledge from one generation to the next. Designs & Patterns feature traditional geometric patterns that are usually created in bold colors like red, blue, yellow, green, and black. The overall look is reminiscent of a patchwork quilt with intricate details that draw the eye to every corner of the rug.
Beni Mguild Rugs
Beni Mguild rugs are some of the most sought-after carpets in the world. Originating from the villages of the Middle Atlas Mountains in Morocco, they are a traditional symbol of Berber culture and have been produced since ancient times. They feature intricate geometric patterns, often with diamond shapes and multiple borders, which represent the values of Berber culture: creativity, resilience, beauty, and strength.
Beni Ourain Rugs
The Beni Ourain tribe has been making these magnificent rugs since ancient times. These Moroccan rugs feature an array of geometric shapes and patterns that are traditionally black and white. In contrast, modern versions may include colors like red, blue, or green. In recent years, there has been a surge in popularity for these types of rugs due to their ability to add an air of sophistication and comfort to any room or space.
Boucherouite Rugs
Boucherouite rugs were first created by rural women in Morocco as an alternative to traditional wool or silk carpets. Rather than using natural fibers, these women would use whatever fabric they had at hand-old clothes, synthetic yarns, t-shirts, etc.-to craft their unique designs. Boucherouite rugs are often characterized by their bold colors and highly detailed designs; some feature geometric shapes, while others are more abstract or floral in nature. This makes them an excellent choice for both modern and traditional interior styles.
Kilim Rugs
Kilim rugs are an ancient form of rug-making that have been crafted for hundreds of years by nomadic tribes in the Middle East and Central Asia. The beauty of kilim rugs lies not just in their craftsmanship, but also in their color and design. Kilims come in a wide range of colors, from bright and vibrant hues to more muted tones. They feature intricate patterns that reflect the culture and history of the people who make them. Apart from their beauty, kilim rugs are also incredibly durable due to their tightly woven construction techniques.
Tuareg Rugs
Tuareg rugs are traditional handmade carpets produced for centuries by the Berber nomadic people of the Sahara Desert. These works of art have been created with a unique combination of cultural symbols and bold geometric patterns, allowing them to stand out from the crowd of conventional rug designs. The colors used in these designs range from soothing pastels to vibrant jewel tones that can add an unexpected pop of vibrancy to any room in your home. Tuareg rugs are renowned for their durability due to their construction materials; they are usually made from high-quality wool sourced directly from local sheep farms in North Africa or imported from other countries like India or China.
The Art of Weaving: A Balance of Creativity and Artisanship
The process of weaving a Moroccan rug is a balance of creativity and artisanship, where each step contributes to the rug’s cultural significance and artistic polish.
- Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Moroccan-style rugs feature distinctive patterns and designs that span a diverse spectrum.
- Choosing the right material is paramount. Local sheep provide the wool, prized for its durability and softness, which is spun by hand to form the foundational yarn for these rugs. Traditionally, Moroccan rug weavers may have incorporated silk or cotton to enhance the texture.
- The dyeing process is an art in itself. Locally sourced ingredients such as spices, minerals, and fruits create vibrant dyes that transform the raw wool into multi-colored skeins. This step is where the wool takes up various hues that captivate the eye and make it possible for the weaver to tell stories in the rug.
- Moroccan rugs typically use the traditional Berber knot, a meticulous hand knotting method that contributes to the plush, high-pile texture.
- As the weaving nears completion, the weaver trims excess fibers, secures the knots, and inspects the rug for resilience and consistency.
Assessing the Quality of a Moroccan-Style Rug
Assessing the quality of a Moroccan-style rug involves an appreciation for the authenticity of its materials, its artisanship, and the enduring vibrancy of its colors.
The hallmark of a high-quality Moroccan rug is its materials. Genuine Moroccan and Moroccan-style rugs are crafted from premium wool to ensure durability, softness, and an authentic feel underfoot. The choice of materials, from the quality of the wool to its origins, contributes to the rug’s texture and overall quality.
A key indicator of authenticity and quality lies in the rug’s creation. Quality Moroccan rugs are meticulously hand woven, knot by knot, by skilled artisans. These rugs feature charming irregularities in the weave and subtle variations in pattern, which serve as signs of the human touch.
The vibrancy of Moroccan-style rug colors should be striking and enduring. Colorfastness is a crucial quality criterion. This ensures that the rich hues withstand the test of time and exposure to light.
Caring for Your Moroccan Rug
Well-maintained rugs crafted from exceptional materials can last for decades. This hinges on whether they undergo adequate maintenance and regular cleanings and where they are placed in your space.
Thorough washing of Moroccan rugs is best left to professionals. Consult care instructions or seek professional cleaning services if your rug requires a deep clean.
- Spot cleaning is vital for maintaining the rug's appearance.
- Gentle vacuuming with low suction will prevent damage to the rug’s fibers.
- Regular brushing with a soft-bristle brush helps maintain its texture.
Moroccan rugs may shed fibers, often many at first, which is normal and expected for these rugs. Regular vacuuming should help the shedding to diminish over time.
While Moroccan rugs are prone to shedding and will often continue to shed throughout their life, Tufenkian Moroccan-style rugs are all hand knotted with materials superior to the wool traditionally used.
Styling Your Home with Moroccan Rugs
The distinct allure of Moroccan-style rugs comes through in their rich colors, intriguing patterns, and cultural resonance.
Here are some tips for incorporating Moroccan rugs into your home decor:
- Moroccan rugs thrive in settings that derive style from a diverse range of design sources. Mix and match furniture pieces in different styles, such as mid-century modern or transitional styles, to contribute to a visually dynamic space.
- Let your Moroccan-style rug serve as a cultural ambassador for your space.
- Moroccan rugs shine when paired with low-slung furniture and pieces with a profile around five inches lower than typical. Consider placing your rug beneath a coffee table or arranging your seating area with pieces closer to the floor.
- Balance is essential with Moroccan-style rugs. If your rug boasts vibrant colors, opting for furniture and decor in neutral tones is often ideal to establish harmonious contrast.
- Moroccan rugs often work best in the company of other textiles, especially on the floor. Layer your rug over larger, neutral-toned carpets to enhance its prominence in the room. This adds depth but can also make a more modest-sized rug work in a larger room.
Moroccan rugs are artistic masterpieces, symbols of a rich and diverse heritage, and a versatile piece of design that can anchor any room and enhance its aesthetic appeal.
The Significance of Red in Moroccan Rugs
A bunch of cherry here, a crimson there-over the last year, the beginnings of a trend have emerged. The hue is seen in a variety of tints across Marrakech, including marketplaces, fabrics, and home products. Red is a color that has long been associated with Moroccan royalty since the 13th century. It symbolizes courage, love and strength, fundamental values of Moroccan culture. Red provides vibrancy wherever it's used, from rosettes to a red lip, but it works especially well in interiors. Red has transcended traditional connections to become a versatile and bold design color.
Because red is such a bold and dark color, balancing is essential in interior design. When designing with red, you have to be mindful of which spaces are for relaxation versus which spaces are for energizing.
A red Moroccan rug can act as a focal point, bringing warmth and individuality to a room. When incorporating red, we recommend starting small and progressing to more bold decisions. Start with a low-profile, red decorative object or a textile, such as a red Moroccan rug or one with a red pattern. Because red is such a bold and dark color, balancing is essential.
If your living room is neutral, a flash of mahogany or auburn will feel classic and fresh when combined with soft grays and muted pinks. Red works very nicely with neutral warm colors like beige or tan. If you want desert-inspired decor, southwestern-style terracotta will help to soften your surroundings. Deep, brown-tinged reds are somber but can also contribute to a sophisticated look. If your room has a more earthy tone, choose a deeper cherry red or burgundy.
Buying a Moroccan Rug in Marrakech: Tips and Considerations
Buying a rug in Marrakech can be a really fun experience, but it also can be overwhelming. Rugs can take anywhere from 10 days to 6 months to make depending on size, complexity, and how much time she has. Rugs first and foremost are used in homes or for celebrations.
Here are some tips and considerations for buying a Moroccan rug in Marrakech:
- Bargaining is expected: Do not, I repeat DO NOT accept the price offered to you in the shop. There are some, but very few, shops that have fixed prices. 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.
- Act nonchalant: 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.
- Narrow down your choices: When you’ve reached a point where you’re not sure anymore stop them. Ask to remove the rugs you do not like and set the ones that are “maybe’s” to the side. Keep in mind that the rooms you are viewing the rug in is likely to be a lot bigger than the room the rug will go in at home.
- Beware of "antique" rugs: 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. Chances are also pretty good you won’t find rugs here that date beyond the 1920’s or 1930’s.
- Check the authenticity of the wool: Authentic Moroccan rugs are made from 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 its made of wool. If it ignites it’s synthetic.
- Shop around: If you’re in a shop and are having a hard time deciding set aside a variety of items that you do like and start asking prices. If you’re really unsure what rugs will cost go to a fixed-price shop first. There are typically artisan centers in larger cities.
- Don't overpay to "help" the artisans: The women are getting a pittance of the sale. You might say “oh it’s ok I’ll pay more because it will make a difference,” no I’m sorry but it likely will not. 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.
Planning Your Rug Purchase
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. 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. 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.
Average Rug Prices:
- Small rug: 750-1000 dirham
- Average rug: 3500-6000 dirham
- Older vintage or large rug: 10,000-25,000+ dirham
If you’re wondering where to buy rugs in Marrakech, I can recommend a fantastic one that takes the pressure and guesswork out of rug shopping. Vintage Moroccan Carpets is the place to go. First, if you want to deal with someone that is honest and straightforward forward you’ll find that. They have ALL kinds of rugs at ALL price points. You can find lovely small rugs starting around $500 or you can find gorgeous vintage rugs that are the real thing and not just made to look vintage (though expect to pay more for older and larger rugs).
If you won’t be in Marrakech, they do online orders with guaranteed delivery (they’ll also ship your rug home if you’d rather). If you want a wider selection or are looking for something a bit more specific visit Les Nomades de Marrakech next door. It’s one of the largest shops you’ll find in Marrakech and honestly, they really do believe in doing right by their customers.
It’s worth noting that not all rugs are “inexpensive” and that’s just a general rule. Many rugs take months to make and a lot of materials, this really has to be considered when you’re shopping.
The shop address of Vintage Carpets is 29 Zaouiat Lahdar Kaat, Benahid 40030 Marrakech - it’s very close to the Ben Youssef Mosque. The door to the shop is fire engine red so you can’t miss it! Hours are 10-18 daily. You can just turn up or you can schedule a time to visit (call at +05 24 38 18 45 in Morocco).
Many Moroccan rug motifs carry symbolic meanings that represent protection, fertility, and prosperity. The weaving process has long been regarded as a spiritual journey for the weaver, acting as a meditation connecting them with the natural and spirit worlds. This spiritual connection powerfully informed the design and construction of Moroccan rugs.
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