What is Kilim?

The word 'Kilim' (late 19th century) is of Turkish origin from Persian ‘gelīm’.

Kilim refers to a pile-less textile. The pile is simply the rug term to describe the surface of the rug.

Traditionally handwoven by local artisans, and produced by one of several common flat weaving techniques . A flat-weave is created by interweaving variously coloured wefts and warps, instead of knotting them or using pressure to hold the rug together. The flat-weave is practiced in different parts of the world. 

In Egypt, Kilim craftsmen and women come from a long line of kilim artisans who consider the craft part of their heritage.

Kilim rugs are formed with two sets of wool ropes; one set of wool ropes is set vertically, and the other is horizontally placed. The horizontal ropes are passed through the vertical groups of ropes and as soon as this rope reaches the end, it turns back on the same path. With the rope being passed over the same path repeatedly, decorative images are formed by using multiple groups of ropes with different colours.

A Kilim rug is different from a traditional rug due to the weave method used to produce it.

Kilim rugs are traditional handmade flat-woven rugs, and because of this, have no pile. This makes them a very appealing option if you're looking for something lightweight and simple but with a cultural connection to the origins of rug-making. They are ideal for use in both indoor and outdoor.

Another difference between Kilim rugs and traditional rugs is that Kilims can be used for a wider variety of purposes than rugs. A kilim runner rug is simply the best for placing in kitchens, hallways and entryways. In addition, many interior designers get more creative with kilim area rugs by hanging them on the wall instead of framed pictures to create an oriental atmosphere in their homes! Since they have a light structure and are soft, flat, durable carpets, they also make a fine curtained door, a camping mat or an outdoor rug. It combines durability with beauty. This rug will endure a lifetime of wear and never go out of style.

Get creative! We would love to know how you will use yours.

All of Kilim's products are handcrafted, making each product unique. Slight variations and imperfections are embraced.

Care Instructions:

Shake the rug in an outside area once a week if this is not possible; vacuum once a week to prevent dust accumulation.

Don't use a dryer or a washing machine to clean a kilim rug to ensure many years of enjoyment. Instead, hand wash if needed with cold water.

For a detergent, use soft natural soap, baby shampoo or a mix of carpet shampoo with cold water and vinegar. Here is a homemade solution:

• 4 1/2 cups of warm water.
• 1/2cup (1.18 ml) of carpet shampoo.
• One tablespoon (15ml) of white vinegar.
• Dip your brush in the solution, applying it gently in vertical strokes.
• Repeat the process on the other side of the rug.
• Rinse the rug with clean cold water.
• Leave the rug flat to dry.

Check our Kilim rugs collection