Are you thinking about adding a Berber rug to your home? There are various types of rugs available and choosing the right one can have an impact on the decor of your space. Berber rugs are remarkable because they have attractive designs and withstand wear and tear. In this article, you will learn how to choose Berber rugs that will complement their interior design. Now let’s start on how to make your house beautiful and comfy!
Understanding Authentic Berber Rugs
What Makes a Berber Rug Authentic?
Authentic Berber rugs are the carpets that are made in the Berber tribes of North Africa. These rugs are world-famous owing to their unique designs as well as high-quality wool.
The ways how these rugs were made many years ago are still prevalent today. When purchasing an original Berber rug, check the signs of hand weaving and natural dyes.
Choosing the Right Size
It is crucial to consider the dimensions while purchasing an authentic Berber rug as well. Determine the place where you would be putting the rug and take the measurements.
A bigger rug helps in making the room cozier than it already is, while a smaller one can highlight a specific area. Always consider the layout of your furniture when choosing the size.
Caring for Your Berber Rug
Taking care of your authentic Berber rug will ensure it lasts for many years. Regular vacuuming helps to maintain its cleanliness and ensure it stays dust-free.
Should there be any spillage of food or other substances on the rug, dab the area with some mild soapy water as soon as possible. More emphasis should be placed on not applying strong chemicals as they will ruin the natural fibers.
Where to Buy Authentic Berber Rugs
When on the quest to buy an authentic Berber rug, the likes of Tamazi Shop should be on the list of preferred sellers.
They offer a wide range of handmade rugs that are ethically sourced. Buying from trusted sources ensures you get a genuine product that supports the artisans who make them.
Common Patterns in Authentic Berber Rugs
Diamond Patterns
A diamond shape is one of the most common patterns found in authentic Berber rugs. These diamonds can vary in size and are often arranged in a repeating sequence.
The diamond pattern is not purely ornamental; it has a cultural dimension to it as far as the Berber people are concerned. Every diamond represents the protection of the home and the inhabitants within and incorporates aspects of blessings.
Geometric Shapes
Geometric shapes are another common feature in authentic Berber rugs. These shapes include squares, triangles, and hexagons, which are frequently used together to form complicated patterns.
The use of geometric patterns is a long-established custom that exhibits the mathematical skills of the weavers. These patterns embellish the otherwise classic rug design.
Abstract Symbols
Abstract symbols in the authentic Berber rugs are often associated with certain aspects for which the symbols serve. These symbols can include representations of animals, plants, and daily life activities.
Each of these symbols has a meaning or a story and therefore makes the rug more than just an ornamental object but an artifact. Learning these symbols can enhance one’s admiration of the rug’s cultural background.
Color Variations
Most of the colors used in the making of the authentic Berber rugs are from naturally made dyes. Such colors include, but are not limited to, red, blue, green, and yellow in various tints.
Such colors are nearly always placed in an arrangement that creates a pleasing and balanced effect. Natural dye does not only enhance the beauty but also guarantees that the rug is environmentally friendly.
Linear Patterns
Linear patterns, such as stripes and lines, are also prevalent in authentic Berber rugs. These lines can be straight, zigzag, or wavy, adding a dynamic element to the rug’s design.
Linear patterns are often used to frame other motifs or to create a sense of movement within the rug. They are simple yet effective in enhancing the overall aesthetic.
How to Check the Authenticity of a Berber Rug
- Material: Authentic Berber rugs are made from 100% natural wool. If the rug feels too smooth or synthetic, it might not be genuine.
- Weaving Irregularities: Hand-woven rugs will have slight imperfections. Look for uneven lines or knots, which indicate that the rug was made by hand and not by a machine.
- Back of the Rug: Turn the rug over and check the back. Authentic Berber rugs will have irregular knotting and a natural fringe. Machine-made rugs usually have a uniform pattern on the back.
- Burn Test: Carefully burn a small string from the rug. Wool will burn slowly and smell like burnt hair, while synthetic fibers will melt quickly and smell like plastic.
- Price: Due to such factors as the high quality of materials used and craftsmanship, the price for authentic Berber rugs is usually higher. Trust your instincts; if the price seems too attractive, then it is likely a scam.
- Seller Reputation: Buy from reputable sellers who specialize in authentic Berber rugs. They should also be able to tell information about the origin of the rug and the tribesmen who made it.
Following these tips, you will be able to recognize authentic Berber rugs and make sure that you purchase a good authentic rug for yourself.
Bottom Line
Add style and coziness to your home sweet home with authentic Berber rugs. They are handwoven, unique and last long. While purchasing, prefer reliable sources to ensure you get a fair deal. Enjoy the beauty and warmth of authentic Berber rugs in your space!
