Kazak Rugs

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Kazak rug?

  Kazak rugs (sometimes referred to as Kazakh or Kazac) are a style of hand-knotted rug originating in the mountainous Caucasus region of Eurasia and are typically known for their bold geometric designs and bright, vibrant colours. 

  Common patterns and designs include tribal motifs, natural imagery such as plants and flowers, and shapes such as squares, diamonds and triangles. 

  The most popular material for these rugs is wool sourced from the region of their origin, but they can also be made from cotton or silk. The name “Kazak” comes from the village in which these rugs were first produced, which was located in the southern part of what is now known as the former Soviet republic of Armenia.

  Kazak rugs come in all sizes and are popular additions to homes or offices looking for high-quality, durable and long-lasting floor coverings or wall hangings.

  
  
• History of Kazak rugs

  Kazak rugs were first produced by nomadic tribes of the Caucasus region in what is now modern-day Armenia. These tribes used wool from the goats and sheep they herded, which they would colour with naturally produced dyes. This produced exceptionally vibrant colours, including reds, blues, yellows, purples and greens. Over time, the production of these rugs spread to other parts of the region and eventually to Europe and North America. Today, traditional Kazak rugs are still produced in Armenia and other parts of the Caucasus region, as well as in Turkey and Iran.

  The earliest examples of these rugs date back to the 16th century and were made by nomadic tribes living in this region. These rugs were made from wool that was hand-spun and dyed using natural dyes such as indigo, madder root, and walnut husks. The designs used on these early rugs were often geometric, tribal, animal or floral patterns that reflected the culture and beliefs of these nomadic tribes.

  Originally used as floor coverings in the tents and homes of the nomadic tribes who created the first Kazak rugs, the craftsmanship of these rugs improved over time, and more intricate designs began to appear. By the 19th century, Kazak rugs had become highly sought after among European collectors and were being exported around the world.

  Today, Kazak rugs are popular decorative items for homes across the globe due to their bright colours and sophisticated designs. They are also sought after for use as wall hangings and area rugs and have become popular among collectors who appreciate their unique beauty and outstanding craftsmanship, as well as the history of their origin.

  From humble origins in the Caucasus Mountains to its current status as a highly sought-after decorative item, the Kazak rug has been an important part of many cultures for centuries.

  
  
• What are the characteristics of Kazak rugs?

  Kazak rugs come in many different styles and designs depending on where they were made and who made them. Some common designs include geometric patterns, floral designs, tribal motifs, pictorial scenes and abstract designs. The range and variety of decoration available makes them a popular choice for home and office furnishings.

  Each type of Kazak rug has its own unique characteristics that make them stand out from other types of rugs. For example, geometric patterns tend to feature bold lines and shapes such as diamonds, squares, and triangles and brighter, bolder colours. On the other hand, floral designs often incorporate softer colours and more organic shapes. Tribal motifs will commonly include symbols or animals, while pictorial scenes depict everyday life or landscapes from around the region where they were made.

  Other common design elements include medallions, stars, crosses, animals such as horses or lions, and human figures. These designs are often arranged in a central medallion pattern with borders around them that contain additional motifs or symbols.

  Traditional Kazak rugs are typically made from wool because it is durable and long-lasting. However, cotton is also used in some cases because it is softer and more affordable than wool. Silk may also be used to create a more luxurious look and feel to the rug. Modern designs may be made with polyester, nylon or other synthetic materials, but if you’re looking for a traditional Kazak, opt for a rug made from natural fibres.

• How to care for your Kazak rug

  Kazak rugs can last for decades and beyond but require proper care and maintenance. It’s important to understand how to care for them in order to keep them looking their best while also protecting your investment.

  1. Cleaning & Vacuuming

  The first step in caring for a Kazak rug is to vacuum it regularly, which will help remove dirt and debris that can accumulate over time, particularly in high-traffic areas. It is important to use a low-powered vacuum cleaner so as not to damage the fibres of the rug. Additionally, it is recommended that you use a suction-only setting on your vacuum cleaner as this will help prevent any damage from occurring due to excessive agitation or brushing of the fibres. If there are any spots or stains on your rug, you should spot-clean them using an all-natural wool soap and warm water.

  Every few years (or as needed), it’s advised that you have your rug professionally cleaned by an experienced cleaner who knows how best to care for the delicate fabrics used in these rugs, such as wool and silk. Regular professional cleaning will help keep your rug’s colours bright and vibrant while also removing any deep-seated dirt or debris that may have accumulated over time. 

  2. Rotating & Flipping

  In order to ensure even wear on your rug, it is important to rotate and flip it every few months. This will help prevent any areas from becoming overly worn or faded due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or foot traffic, particularly if your rug is placed in a naturally lit, high-traffic area such as an entrance hall. Additionally, rotating your rug will also help maintain its shape over time as well as prevent any creasing or buckling from occurring due to uneven weight distribution or tread.

  3. Protection from Sunlight & Moisture

  Another important aspect of caring for your Kazak rug is protecting it from direct sunlight and moisture. Sunlight can cause fading over time which will not only affect how your rug looks but can also significantly reduce its value. Therefore, it is important that you keep your rug out of direct sunlight whenever possible by either placing furniture over it or hanging curtains nearby if necessary. 

  Additionally, moisture can cause mould growth which can be difficult and expensive to remove once established; therefore, you should take steps such as using area rugs with rubber backing or placing furniture pads underneath furniture legs in order to protect your Kazak rug from moisture damage. You may also wish to avoid putting your rug directly in front of an external door to avoid moisture being introduced by wet shoes.

  4. Storage & Repair

  Finally, when not in use, you should store your Kazak rug in an area with low humidity levels where temperatures remain relatively constant throughout the year. Additionally, if you ever need repairs done on your Kazak rug (for example, reweaving and repair of frayed edges), you can speak to our team of experienced rug cleaning and restoration professionals who specialise in repairing hand-knotted rugs so that they can be properly repaired and restored without damaging them further in the process, particularly if they are highly valuable or antique.

  How Kazak Rugs are Made?

  The process of making a Kazak rug is an art form that requires high levels of skill and patience. It is a labour-intensive process that involves many steps, from the selection of materials to the weaving of the rug itself and can take many months to complete.

  The first step in making a Kazak rug is selecting the materials. Traditionally, sheep or goat wool is used as it is durable and easy to work with. However, cotton or silk can also be used depending on the desired look and feel of the rug. Once the materials have been selected, they are dyed in order to achieve the desired colours for the design. This can be done using natural dyes or synthetic dyes, depending on preference; traditionally, natural dyes are used.

  Once the materials have been dyed, they are spun into yarns which will then be used to weave the rug. 

  Kazak rugs are woven on a vertical loom using a symmetrical knotting technique known as Ghiordes knotting which allows for intricate patterns and designs to be created. This knotting technique involves wrapping two strands of yarn around each other before tying them together to create a single knot. This process is repeated until a strong, durable fabric has been created and the desired pattern is achieved, resulting in an intricate design that can take weeks or even months to complete, even by a highly-skilled weaver. 

  
  
• What are the different types of Kazak rugs?

  Kazak rugs are a timeless classic that have been popular for centuries due to their intricate patterns, vibrant colours and the quality of the weaving used to create them. Traditional and antique versions of these rugs are still highly sought after by collectors due to their quality craftsmanship and unique designs. However, contemporary versions offer an updated look that can be used to create a modern aesthetic in any room. Kazak rugs come in many different styles and designs depending on where they were made and who made them.

  Traditional Rugs

  Traditional Kazak rugs are usually made from wool and feature a variety of symmetrical geometric patterns. These patterns often include diamonds, squares, stars, and other shapes that represent different aspects of life in the Caucasus region. The colours used in these rugs are created using natural dyes and are typically bright and vibrant, with reds, blues, greens, yellows, oranges, and purples being common choices. Traditional Handmade Kazak rugs can take up to a year or more to complete due to the intricate knotting techniques used by skilled artisans.

  Contemporary Rugs

  Contemporary Kazak rugs typically feature more modern designs than their traditional counterparts. These designs often incorporate abstract shapes and bold colours that can be used to create a unique look in any room. Contemporary versions of these rugs are much more vibrant in colour as they are newly dyed. While they may not have the same level of craftsmanship as traditional versions, contemporary versions can still provide an attractive addition to any home décor scheme and are typically more affordable than older antique rugs. 

  The Different Types of Kazak Rugs

  Today there are many different types of Kazak rugs available on the market. Some of the most common types include classic, tribal, modern and antique rugs.

  Classic Kazaks: These are traditional pieces that feature geometric or floral patterns in bold colours such as reds, blues, greens and yellows. They often feature a central medallion surrounded by four corner pieces.

  Tribal Kazaks: These pieces feature more abstract designs that reflect the culture and beliefs of the people who made them. They often incorporate symbols such as stars or animals into their designs.

  Modern Kazaks: These contemporary pieces feature bold and more simplified designs that complement current trends in interior design. They often incorporate bright colours such as reds and blues into their design with clean, sharp edges featuring within the various lozenge style patterns.

  Antique Kazaks: These rare pieces are highly sought after by collectors due to their age and craftsmanship. They often feature intricate details such as small knots or delicate embroidery work that make them truly unique works of art.

  
  
• Why Choose a Kazak Rug

  Whatever style of Kazak rug you choose, they are a timeless and classic addition to any home or office. From their intricate designs to their bright colours, these rugs are sure to add a unique touch of class, style, elegance and warmth to any room. 

  Each traditional handmade Kazak rug is unique and can take many months to complete due to the amount of detail that goes into each piece. It’s this level of skill and craftsmanship required that makes Kazak rugs so special and desirable.

  Today, traditional Kazak rugs are still made by hand using the original methods passed down through generations. This makes them highly sought after by collectors who appreciate the artistry and workmanship that goes into each piece, as well as the time it takes to make such a high-quality piece of woven fabric.

  Kazak rugs offer many benefits that make them worth investing in, whether for your home or office space. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider buying one:

  Durability: Kazak rugs are made with high-quality wool fibres that are incredibly durable and long-lasting. This means they won’t easily wear out or fade over time as other types of rugs can. Quite simply, these rugs are built to last.

  Versatility: The vivid colours and intricate designs make them perfect for any room in your home or office space – from bedrooms to living rooms to hallways or offices – adding an instant touch of style wherever they’re placed.

  Investment: Because they’re handmade with traditional methods passed down through generations, Kazak rugs can be considered an investment piece that will increase in value over time if cared for properly. They are highly sought after by collectors, and rarer antique examples can sell for thousands of pounds.

  Comfort: The wool fibres used in these rugs provide warmth and comfort underfoot – making them perfect for cold winter days or chilly nights when you want something soft beneath your feet.

  Kazak rugs are timeless pieces of artwork that bring beauty and elegance into any room they occupy – making them well worth investing in. From their history-rich origins all the way through their versatile, colourful designs, there is no doubt why so many people choose these unique pieces when decorating their homes or office spaces. 

  
  
• Are Kazak rugs a good investment?

  Kazak rugs are not only beautiful pieces of art but also make great investments. These rugs tend to appreciate in value over time due to their high-quality craftsmanship and unique designs. As such, investing in a Kazak rug can be an excellent way to diversify your portfolio of assets or add an heirloom piece to your collection that will last for generations, particularly if you opt for one of the rarer antique examples. 

  It’s worth noting however if you’re considering investing in a Kazak rug, it’s recommended that you make your purchase from an established and experienced dealer to ensure your new investment is an authentic and high-quality example.

  How Much Do Kazak Rugs Cost?

  When it comes to pricing a Kazak rug, there are several factors that come into play. The size of the rug is one of the most important considerations and has the greatest impact on price. As you may expect, larger rugs tend to be more expensive than smaller ones. The age, origin and condition of the rug also play a role in determining its price, as older rugs may be more valuable due to their provenance, rarity and craftsmanship. Additionally, the materials used in creating the rug will affect its cost – unsurprisingly, higher-quality materials such as wool or silk tend to be more expensive than synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon. Finally, the intricacy of the design can also influence pricing – more complex patterns will typically cost more than simpler ones because of the sheer amount of time and work involved in making them and the level of artisan skill required.

  So what can you expect to pay for a Kazak rug?

  On average, smaller rugs (under 4 feet by 6 feet) typically range from around £600-£800, while larger rugs (over 8 feet by 10 feet) can cost upwards of £2,000 or more. Of course, this is just an estimate – prices may vary depending on many factors pertaining to the size, quality and age of the rug you choose. Whatever you pay for your Kazak rug, you can be sure that it will add a unique touch to your space. And, if you choose an authentic, high-quality item which is cared for properly, it will maintain or even increase in value over time.

  
  
• Why are Kazak Rugs so Popular?

  The versatility and bold designs of Kazak rugs have made them a popular choice for centuries, and their popularity continues today.  

  One of the reasons Kazak rugs are so popular is because of their unique design elements, which make them highly desirable. These rugs feature distinctive patterns that can range from simple to incredibly complex depending on the rug’s age and origin. And, as many of these designs have been passed down through generations of skilled craftsmen, they offer home furnishing with true provenance and history.

  Kazak rugs are also known for their high-quality materials. These rugs are typically made from wool, which makes them incredibly durable and long-lasting. The wool used in traditional rugs is often hand-spun, which gives them a unique texture that is both soft and luxurious to the touch. The use of such high-quality material ensures that your rug will last for many years to come without losing its original beauty or colour vibrancy.

  Kazak rugs also offer a great deal of versatility when it comes to decorating your home or office space. These stunning pieces can be used as wall hangings or floor coverings, depending on your preference and the look you want to achieve. They also come in a variety of sizes which makes it easy to find one that fits perfectly into any room or space you have available, however large or small.

  Additionally, these beautiful pieces can easily be paired with other decorative items such as furniture or artwork to create a one-of-a-kind look that will be sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for an eye-catching wall hanging or an elegant floor covering, these stunning pieces are sure to add a touch of sophistication and luxury wherever they’re placed.

  
  
• What are Kazak Rugs Made of?

  Traditional Kazak rugs are made from wool, although may also contain silk or cotton.  The wool used in traditional rugs is usually sourced from sheep that graze in the Caucasus Mountains, which gives it a texture and colour that is truly unique. The wool is then hand-spun into yarn and dyed with natural dyes that have been locally sourced to create the bright colours typically seen in Kazak rugs.
  

• How to Choose the Right Kazak Rug for Your Home

  Kazak rugs are timeless classics that have been used in homes around the world for centuries. They are known for their colours, complex patterns, and luxurious feel, but with so many different styles and designs available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your unique space. Here are some tips on how to choose the right Kazak rug for your home or office.

  Consider Your Room’s Colour Scheme

  When choosing a Kazak rug, it’s important to consider the colour scheme of the room you plan to place it in. If you have neutral colours like white or beige, then a bright and colourful rug will add a pop of colour and bring life into the room. On the other hand, if you already have bold colours in your room, then a more subtle rug with muted tones may be better suited.

  Kazak rugs come in a huge range of shades and colours, so whatever your colour scheme, you can be sure to find a rug to suit your interior design aspirations.

  Think About Size

  Size is also important when selecting the right rug. If you have a large space, then you may want to go with a larger rug that will fill up the area and make it look more inviting, or perhaps a selection of smaller rugs which break up the large space into themes or areas. In smaller rooms, you may want to opt for a smaller rug so as not to overwhelm the area.

  Oversized Kazak rugs are perfect for larger rooms or open spaces where you want to make a bold statement with your rug choice. These large-scale pieces can be used to create an eye-catching focal point in any room while also providing comfort and warmth underfoot, particularly when the existing flooring is hard, such as wood or tiles.

  Pay Attention to Quality

  When buying any type of rug, it’s important to pay attention to quality. Look for rugs that are made from high-quality materials, and make sure they are well-constructed with tight stitching and no loose threads or fraying edges.

  Always check that any supplier is established and sources their rugs ethically and from skilled weavers to assure the quality and authenticity of your purchase.

  Look at Patterns and Designs

  Finally, when selecting a Kazak rug, it’s important to look at patterns and designs as well as colours. Consider what kind of design would best suit your home before making your final decision, whether that be tribal motifs, geometric patterns or natural designs featuring flowers or plants; there’s a Kazak rug for every space.

  
  
• Uses for Kazak Rugs

  Kazak rugs can be used in many different ways throughout your home or office décor scheme depending on their size and the design style you choose:

  Living Room: A large traditional or modern Kazak rug can be used to anchor furniture pieces in your living room while also adding texture and colour to the space. Opt for warmer tones for a cosy feel or bright, bold colours for a modern touch.

  Bedroom: A smaller rug can be placed at the foot of your bed for added warmth underfoot when getting out of bed each morning while also adding visual interest to the space with its bold design elements.

  Dining Room: Place a rug underneath your dining table for added comfort when sitting down for meals while also protecting your floors from spills or stains from food items that may drop onto them during meals.

  Entryway: A smaller-sized traditional rug can be placed at your entryway door to welcome guests into your home while also adding an inviting touch with its classic design elements.

  Office: Add a touch of professionalism and class to your office with an antique or traditional Kazak rug.

  
  
• Are Kazak Rugs Good Quality?

  Authentic Kazak rugs are made from high-quality materials that make them durable and long-lasting. The wool used for these carpets is usually sourced from sheep and goats, which produce softer wool than other animals such as alpacas or llamas. This wool is then hand-spun into yarn before being dyed with natural dyes such as madder root or indigo to create dazzling colours that won’t fade over time.

  The dyes used for new Kazak rugs are also known for their colourfastness, meaning they are bleed and fade-resistant when exposed to sunlight or water. This ensures that your rug will stay looking beautiful for years to come without losing its colour or vibrancy.

  Kazak rugs are traditionally handmade by expert, artisan weavers using age-old techniques handed down through the generations. This produces rugs of exceptional quality which will last for years to come.