Factory Rugs - Area Rug Buyer's Guide

Styles and Models


There are many different styles of rugs (over 300 variations). The following is a summary of some of the most popular styles:

Isfahan – World-renowned for their luxurious beauty and elegance. Different combinations of cotton, wool, and silk are used in their designs. They have numerous, very intricately drawn and precisely executed patterns; floral shapes as well as realistically drawn birds, and flowers are the most common. The trademark of Isfahan is the sinuous curvilinear pattern.

Tabriz – Made in and around the city of Tabriz. Intricate flowers, exotic foliage and gardens are just some of the elements depicted in a Tabriz rug. These intricate designs are usually arranged to give the delicate appearance of lacework. They are famous for their dense floral motifs and exceptional quality.

Kashan – Most frequently found hanging on ancient palace walls and to this day, is still known as the Palace Carpet. The Kashan’s distinctive patterns are dense in design. They usually have a single medallion in the center surrounded by extension floral motifs. They are legendary for their appeal.

Nain – In Persia, the word “Nain” is a synonym for fine. Weavers can take several years just to create one of these extraordinary rugs. The typical design pattern is a single medallion on a blue background. First-rate grades of wool and silk are used exclusively on a fine grade of cotton when making these exceptional rugs.

Kashmar – The durable and unique Kashmar rug from the province of Khorassan is a rare find in today’s marketplace. Almost all Kashmar rugs have a pile of wool and a foundation of cotton. Intricate and often historical patterns are woven into these spectacular rugs.

Qum – Usually made of 100% silk, the Qum is amongst the finest of Oriental rugs. The Qum contains minute details (often depicting hunting scenes) and is often created by a master weaver towards the end of his/her life.

Gabbeh – Gabbeh means unclipped, the term is used to refer to long pile tribal and village rugs. The designs of a Gabbeh are extremely simple and organized with large fields of bold stripes and geometric shapes. They are well known for their incredible variety of colorful designs.

Now that you know a little bit about rug terminology and the different styles of rugs that are available, you will need to consider various factors before you actually purchase one. Oriental rugs are an investment. Knowing what you want before you purchase and what your budget is will ensure that you are happy with your choice.