Although no one knows precisely when and where the technique of weaving first started, there is no doubt that the weaving art, in general, started in Central Asia. A popular explosion caused the inhabitants of that area to migrate to the western parts of Asia in order to find more prosperous land. These migrating tribes were called Yuroks or nomadic tribes. During their migrations, these nomads, who were exposed to severe weather conditions, learned to use goat hair in the making of their tents. Goat hair is longer and much stiffer than sheep's wool. The flat weave technique was used in the making of nomadic tents.

Turkish carpets are among the most sought after household items all over the world. Their rich colors, warm tones, and extraordinary patterns with traditional motifs have contributed to the status that Turkish carpets have maintained since the 13th century. Marco Polo, who traveled through Anatolia in the late 13th century, commented on the beauty and artistry of the carpets. A number of carpets from this period, known as the Seljuk carpets, were discovered in several mosques in central Anatolia. These were under many layers of subsequently placed carpets. The Seljuk carpets are today in the museums in Konya and Istanbul. It is very exciting to imagine that we may be looking at the very same carpets that Marco Polo praised in the year 1272.

Interesting Facts:

• Materials used for the preparation of these outstanding rugs usually include silk, pure wool, wool on cotton, and viscose cotton, using both vegetable and chemical dyes. Though vegetable dyes follows the traditional method of making it.
• This art is retained in Hereke, near Istanbul. World’s finest silk rugs are weaved here and it traces back to the Ottoman period of rule.
• Today this art is only preserved in turkey and employ all the weaving techniques including kilim, cicim, zili, sumak.
• Earlier, there were certain basic colors which were used with floral and geometrical motifs, but later on, animal motifs became a distinct quality and gained popularity during the 14th and 15th century.
• The Ottoman style rugs drew on rather naturalistic techniques of showing sinuous branches, leaves, tulips, hyacinths and carnations, among other various patterns and designs.
• The usage of Rugs has advanced over the years. In earlier times, it was restricted in public places, rather more expensive places were seen decorated with Turkish rugs but today every person, with a strong passion for art prefers to decorate their homes with this exotic masterpiece. Whether in the bedroom or drawing room, it enhances the look of your home brilliantly.
• With the arrival of glass top tables, Turkish runner and rugs are considered more stylish and tasteful, even decorated on glass tables.