Turkoman Rugs

Turkoman rugs are known to have small, repeating geometric designs and are normally considered fine quality. Turkoman rugs are generally very soft, due in part to a thicker pile, and very different from other Persian types and styles. The popular elephant foot and octagonal 'gul' motifs tend to look best in smaller sizes and tend to make the most of the intricate pattern. These are not the most durable of carpet choices and as such, are recommended for more decorative applications rather than for use in high traffic areas.

Turkoman rugs are naturally dyed and usually come in earthtones such as greens, reds, whites, and browns. This natural dye method employs the use of such things as vegetables, bark, roots as well as other items. Making dyes this way is some thousands of years old and still in use today as indigo, onion, Madder root, sage, almond, henna, chamomile and many others too numerous to mention, are used extensively as sources for the variety of colors created.

Turkoman rug colors are are as breathtaking and beautiful as any handmade oriental. To achieve a particular hue or color takes precision, and requires coordinating at least 3 fundamental variables. First, the quality and amount of the specific dyeing agent must be determined. Next, the proper water temperature has to be reached and the time allotted for soaking established. These two steps must be in perfect (correct) proportion regarding the particular application to the wool. The third step involves a process known as Mordanting. It involves the application of a fixative or bonding agent that is applied to the wool not only before, but also during and after the dyeing process. This is an ancient method used most notably in India and China, and passed on to Europe by way of Turkey and Persia.

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