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Terminology

A

Abrash: Natural color variations in handmade carpets due to differences in wool, dyes, or weaving techniques. Often considered a desirable characteristic in authentic handmade rugs.
Acrylic: A synthetic fiber used in carpet manufacturing known for its wool-like appearance, softness, and resistance to staining, fading, and mildew.
Anatolian Rug: Handmade rugs from Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), known for their distinctive geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and cultural symbolism. These rugs often feature stylized motifs representing fertility, protection, and good fortune, with techniques dating back thousands of years.
Ardabil Carpet: Famous Persian carpets originally from the Ardabil region in northwestern Iran. The most renowned example is displayed in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, dating from the 16th century. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, medallion design, and historical significance in Islamic art.
Axminster: A type of machine-made carpet with a cut pile surface, known for intricate patterns and durability. Named after the town of Axminster in England where it was first produced.
Anti-Static Treatment: A chemical application to carpet fibers that reduces static electricity buildup, particularly important in commercial environments with electronic equipment.
Aubusson: A flat-woven decorative carpet originally produced in France, characterized by floral designs, medallions, and architectural elements in pastel colors. Traditional Aubussons were handwoven tapestries used by French nobility.
Area Rug Sizing: Standard dimensions for area rugs, typically including 2'x3', 3'x5', 4'x6', 5'x8', 8'x10', 9'x12', and 12'x15'. Proper sizing ensures the rug fits the room appropriately, with furniture either fully on or off the rug depending on design principles.
Ageing Treatment: A finishing process applied to new carpets to give them an antique or vintage appearance. May include chemical washing, sun exposure, or mechanical distressing to create a worn, faded look that mimics the patina of an older carpet.

B

Backing: The material on the underside of a carpet that provides stability and structure. Primary backing holds the carpet fibers, while secondary backing adds strength and dimensional stability.
Berber: A style of carpet characterized by loops of the same height, often flecked with color. Originally referred to handmade North African carpets but now commonly refers to loop pile carpets with a distinctive speckled appearance.
Broadloom: Carpet manufactured in wide widths (typically 12 or 15 feet) on a broad loom. Refers to wall-to-wall carpeting as opposed to carpet tiles or area rugs.
Binding: A strip of fabric sewn along the edge of a carpet or rug to prevent fraying and provide a finished look. Common in area rugs and stair runners.
Biophilic Carpet Design: Carpet patterns and textures inspired by nature, designed to bring elements of the natural world into interior spaces. Part of the broader biophilic design movement that aims to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment.
Bokhara
Bukhara: A type of handmade rug traditionally from Central Asia (particularly Turkmenistan), characterized by repeated geometric patterns, often featuring octagonal or diamond-shaped motifs (guls) on a red or burgundy background.
Baluchi Rug
Baluch Rug: Tribal rugs made by the Baluch people of eastern Iran, southern Afghanistan, and western Pakistan. Known for their dark, rich colors (deep blues, reds, and browns), geometric designs, and the use of camel hair and wool. Often feature prayer designs, tree of life motifs, and stylized animals.
Bidjar
Bijar: Persian rugs from the Kurdish town of Bidjar in northwestern Iran, known as the "Iron Rugs of Persia" due to their exceptional durability and dense weave. Feature intricate floral and geometric designs with a distinctive tight weave that makes them extremely sturdy and long-lasting.

C

Cut Pile: A carpet construction where the loops of yarn are cut at the top, creating a plush surface with individual tufts standing upright.
CRI Green Label Plus: A certification program by the Carpet and Rug Institute that identifies carpets, adhesives, and cushions with very low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions for better indoor air quality.
Coir: A natural fiber extracted from coconut husks, used to make durable entrance mats and rugs with excellent scraping properties.
Carpet Cleaning Methods: Various techniques for cleaning carpets including hot water extraction (steam cleaning), dry compound cleaning, bonnet cleaning, and encapsulation. Each method has specific applications depending on carpet type, soiling level, and drying time requirements.
Carpet Tiles
Modular Carpet: Square sections of carpet (typically 18"×18" or 24"×24") that can be installed individually and replaced as needed. Popular in commercial settings for their flexibility, ease of installation, and reduced waste during replacement.
Carved Carpet: A carpet with a design created by cutting pile to different heights, creating a three-dimensional, sculptured effect. Often used to add visual interest and texture to solid-colored carpets.
Cradle to Cradle Certification: A globally recognized measure of safer, more sustainable products made for the circular economy. For carpets, it evaluates material health, product circularity, clean air and climate protection, water and soil stewardship, and social fairness.

D

Denier: A unit of measurement for the linear mass density of fibers. Higher denier indicates thicker, more durable carpet fibers.
Dhurrie
Durrie: A flat-woven rug from India, traditionally made of cotton or wool, characterized by geometric patterns and reversible design.
Direct Glue-Down: A carpet installation method where adhesive is applied directly to the subfloor and the carpet is laid on top. Common in commercial settings and for carpet tiles, providing a secure installation without the need for padding.
Double Stick: A carpet installation method where the padding is glued to the subfloor, and then the carpet is glued to the padding. Provides extra stability and is often used in high-traffic commercial areas.
Density: A measure of how tightly packed carpet fibers are within the pile. Higher density generally indicates better durability and performance. Calculated by multiplying the face weight by 36 and dividing by the pile height.

E

Euroclass Fire Rating System: A European classification system for the fire performance of construction products, including floor coverings. Ranges from A (non-combustible) to F (easily flammable), with additional smoke production (s) and flaming droplets (d) classifications.
Ecotex Standard 100: An international certification system that ensures textiles, including carpets, are tested for harmful substances and are safe for human use.
End-on-End Weave: A carpet weaving technique where alternating warp threads are raised and lowered to create a textured appearance.
Eco-Friendly Carpet: Carpets manufactured with sustainable materials, low environmental impact production methods, and recyclable components. May include carpets made from recycled materials, natural fibers, or those produced with reduced water and energy consumption.
Environmental Product Declaration (EPD): A transparent, objective report that communicates the environmental performance and impact of a carpet throughout its lifecycle. EPDs are based on international standards and life cycle assessment methodology.
Engineered Flooring: A type of flooring that combines multiple layers of different materials for improved stability and performance. In the context of carpet, may refer to carpet tiles with engineered backing systems designed for specific performance characteristics.
Erased Carpet
Distressed Carpet: A style of carpet that has been deliberately treated to create a worn, vintage appearance. The process typically involves chemical washing, mechanical distressing, or color reduction techniques to simulate the patina of age and wear, creating an antique look with contemporary durability.
Esari Turkmen Rug: Traditional carpets woven by the Esari tribe of Turkmenistan, characterized by their distinctive deep red background and geometric gul (medallion) patterns. These rugs typically feature a primary elephant foot gul design with secondary motifs arranged in orderly rows, and are known for their fine weave and rich cultural symbolism.

F

Face Weight: The weight of the pile yarn in a carpet, measured in ounces per square yard. Higher face weight generally indicates a denser, more durable carpet.
Frieze
Frieze Carpet: A type of cut pile carpet with tightly twisted fibers that curl in different directions, creating a textured, casual appearance with excellent durability and ability to hide footprints.
Fire Retardant Treatment: Chemical processes applied to carpets to reduce flammability and meet fire safety standards. Common treatments include applying flame-retardant chemicals during manufacturing.
Flatweave
Flat-Woven Carpet: A type of carpet constructed without pile, where the warp and weft threads are woven together to create a flat surface. Examples include kilims, dhurries, and soumaks. Flatweaves are typically reversible, lightweight, and easier to clean than pile carpets, making them popular for casual spaces and warmer climates.
Ferahan Rug
Feraghan Rug: Antique Persian carpets from the Ferahan (or Feraghan) plain in central Iran, known for their all-over Herati patterns and subtle color palettes. These 19th-century rugs typically feature a diamond lattice design with small floral motifs, often in navy blue, rust red, and ivory. Highly regarded for their fine weave, balanced compositions, and elegant restraint.
Felted Wool Carpet: A type of carpet made by compressing and matting wool fibers together using heat, moisture, and pressure rather than weaving or tufting. The resulting material is dense, durable, and naturally water-resistant. Modern felted wool carpets combine traditional techniques with contemporary designs for a unique textile that provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.
Flokati: A traditional handmade Greek rug characterized by its long, shaggy pile made from 100% wool. Authentic Flokati rugs are woven in Greece, then washed in the cold waters of the Pindus mountains, causing the wool to fluff and create their distinctive fluffy texture. Originally used by shepherds for warmth, they are now popular decorative pieces known for their luxurious softness and natural cream color.

G

Gabbeh: A type of handmade Persian rug characterized by thick pile, simple designs, and bright colors. Traditionally made by nomadic tribes for practical use.
Gauge: In machine-made carpets, refers to the distance between needles on the tufting machine. Lower gauge numbers indicate more needles per inch and a denser carpet.
Ghiordes Knot
Turkish Knot: One of the two primary knot types used in hand-knotted carpets, where the yarn is wrapped around two adjacent warp threads and then pulled back between them. This symmetrical knot creates a stronger, more durable carpet but allows fewer knots per square inch than the asymmetrical Persian knot. Named after the town of Ghiordes (modern Gördes) in Turkey, it is commonly used in Turkish, Caucasian, and some Persian carpets.
Gul
Gol: An octagonal or polygonal medallion motif commonly found in Turkmen tribal rugs. These distinctive medallions serve as tribal emblems, with each Turkmen tribe (Tekke, Salor, Ersari, etc.) having its own characteristic gul design. The word means "flower" or "rose" in Persian, though the designs are highly geometric and stylized rather than floral in appearance.
Gorevan Carpet
Heriz Gorevan: A type of Persian carpet from the Heriz district in northwestern Iran, specifically from the village of Gorevan. These rugs feature bold, geometric patterns with large central medallions and corner pieces in rich reds, blues, and ivory. Compared to standard Heriz rugs, Gorevans typically have a coarser weave, more angular designs, and a distinctive rustic character that makes them popular for traditional and transitional interiors.
Green Cleaning: Environmentally friendly carpet cleaning methods that use non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning agents and reduced water consumption. These approaches minimize chemical residues, decrease indoor air pollution, and reduce environmental impact while still effectively cleaning carpets. Methods may include plant-based cleaners, steam cleaning with minimal chemical use, or encapsulation cleaning that reduces water waste.

H

Hand-Knotted: A carpet weaving technique where individual knots are tied by hand around warp threads, creating durable, high-quality rugs. Common in Persian, Oriental, and Turkish carpets.
Heat-Set: A manufacturing process where twisted synthetic fibers are heat-treated to set the twist permanently, improving durability and appearance retention.
Heathered: A carpet appearance created by blending different colored yarns together, resulting in a mottled, textured look.
Herati Pattern
Mahi Design: A classic Persian carpet design featuring a central diamond with a flower in the middle, surrounded by curved leaves. Often used as a repeating pattern in the field of many Persian rugs, especially those from Tabriz, Kerman, and Kashan. The name "Mahi" (meaning fish) comes from the leaf shapes resembling fish.
Hamadan Rug: Rugs from the Hamadan province in northwestern Iran, one of the oldest rug-making regions in the world. These village and tribal rugs feature geometric designs, bold colors, and are typically made as smaller pieces. Known for their durability and distinctive single-weft construction.
Hali: The Turkish word for carpet or rug. Also the name of a prestigious international magazine dedicated to antique carpets, textiles, and Islamic art.

I

Ikat: A dyeing technique used in carpet making where yarns are tie-dyed before weaving, creating blurred or feathered patterns.
Indoor-Outdoor Carpet: Carpets made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene that resist moisture, mildew, and UV fading, suitable for both interior and exterior use.
Isfahan Rug: Luxurious Persian carpets from the city of Isfahan in central Iran, considered among the finest in the world. Known for their intricate floral patterns, high knot density (often exceeding 500 KPSI), silk highlights, and exceptional craftsmanship. Traditional Isfahan designs feature a central medallion with elaborate corner pieces and borders.

J

Jute: A natural fiber used in carpet backing and sometimes as pile material. Known for its strength but susceptible to moisture damage.
Jacquard Weave: A complex weaving technique used in carpet manufacturing that allows for intricate, detailed patterns through individual control of warp threads.
Jaipuri Rug: Handcrafted carpets from Jaipur, India, known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Traditional Jaipuri rugs feature distinctive floral patterns, geometric motifs, and sometimes incorporate block-printing techniques. These rugs often use a cotton foundation with wool pile and are renowned for their craftsmanship, with techniques passed down through generations of artisans in Rajasthan.
Jajim: A traditional flat-woven textile from Iran and the Caucasus region, similar to kilims but typically woven in narrow strips that are sewn together. Jajims feature colorful stripes and simple geometric patterns, often in bright blues, reds, and yellows. Historically used as floor coverings, bedspreads, or wrapping cloths by nomadic tribes, they are now appreciated as decorative textiles and wall hangings.
Jufti Knot
False Knot: A carpet knotting technique where the yarn is wrapped around four warp threads instead of the usual two (Turkish knot) or one-and-a-half (Persian knot). This shortcut allows weavers to create carpets more quickly but results in lower knot density and potentially reduced durability. Jufti knotting is sometimes used in commercial production to speed up the weaving process while maintaining the appearance of a densely knotted carpet.

K

Kilim: A flat-woven rug without pile, traditionally made in Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, and the Balkans. Known for geometric patterns and created by interweaving colored weft threads with warp threads.
Knot Count
KPSI: Knots Per Square Inch, a measure of quality in hand-knotted rugs. Higher knot counts generally indicate finer detail and higher quality.
Kashan Rug: Fine Persian carpets from the city of Kashan in central Iran, known for their high-quality wool, precise weaving, and classic medallion designs. Traditional Kashan rugs feature a central medallion, intricate floral patterns, and rich color palettes dominated by reds, blues, and ivories.
Kerman Rug: Prestigious Persian carpets from the Kerman province in southeastern Iran, known for their varied designs, fine weave, and durability. Kerman rugs often feature intricate floral patterns, pictorial scenes, or the distinctive "vase" technique. Their palette typically includes soft blues, reds, and ivory tones.
Kazak Rug
Kazakh Rug: Bold, geometric rugs traditionally made by Caucasian tribes in the Kazak region (now parts of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia). Known for their vibrant colors, geometric medallions, and tribal motifs. Modern Kazak-style rugs are also produced in countries like Pakistan and India.

L

Level Loop Pile: A carpet construction where yarn loops are all the same height, creating a uniform, textured surface with excellent durability and soil hiding capabilities.
Low VOC: Carpets with low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds, which contribute to better indoor air quality and reduced chemical emissions.
Latex Backing: A synthetic rubber compound applied to the back of carpets to secure the tufts and provide dimensional stability. Available in various formulations including SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) and synthetic latex, which offer different levels of flexibility and durability.
Loop Pile: A carpet construction where the yarn forms loops that remain uncut on the surface. Available in level loop (all loops the same height) or multi-level loop (varying heights to create patterns or texture). Generally more durable and less prone to crushing than cut pile carpets.
Loom: The machine used to weave carpets by interlacing warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) threads. Traditional carpet looms include Wilton, Axminster, and Jacquard looms, each producing different types of woven carpets with distinct characteristics and capabilities.

M

Medallion: A central design element in many Oriental and Persian carpets, typically a symmetrical pattern that anchors the overall design.
Moth-Proofing: Treatment applied to wool carpets to prevent moth larvae from feeding on the fibers.
Matelassé: A weaving or stitching technique that creates a quilted or padded appearance in fabrics, sometimes used in decorative carpets and upholstery.

N

Nap: The direction of the pile fibers in a carpet. When viewed from different angles, the carpet may appear lighter or darker depending on the nap direction.
Nylon: A synthetic fiber commonly used in carpet manufacturing, known for its durability, resilience, and stain resistance when properly treated.
Nain Rug
Na'in Rug: Exquisite Persian carpets from the city of Nain in central Iran, known for their extremely fine weave, delicate patterns, and light color palette. Typically feature a central medallion with intricate floral motifs on an ivory or light blue background. Often include silk highlights and can reach knot counts of 700 KPSI in the finest examples.
Nomadic Rugs: Carpets woven by nomadic tribes across the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa. These rugs are characterized by bold geometric designs, tribal symbols, and portable loom construction. Unlike city or workshop rugs, nomadic rugs often feature asymmetry, color variations, and designs passed down through generations without written patterns.

O

Olefin
Polypropylene: A synthetic fiber used in carpet manufacturing, known for its excellent stain and moisture resistance, colorfastness, and affordability.
Oriental Rug: Handmade rugs originating from Eastern countries including Persia (Iran), Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and China. Known for intricate designs, high knot counts, and traditional patterns. Oriental rugs are categorized by their region of origin, weaving technique, design elements, and materials, with each area producing distinctive styles that reflect local cultural traditions and artistic expressions.
Overdyed Rug: A technique where vintage or antique rugs are bleached to remove original colors and then re-dyed, typically in vibrant, saturated hues like turquoise, purple, or hot pink. This process gives traditional Oriental rugs a contemporary look while preserving their original patterns and textures. Popular in modern interior design for adding a bold color statement with traditional patterns.

P

Pile: The surface of the carpet consisting of upright fibers, either in loops or cut tufts. Pile height refers to the length of these fibers from the backing.
PET
Polyester: A synthetic carpet fiber made from recycled plastic bottles, known for its softness, stain resistance, and eco-friendly properties.
Padding
Carpet Cushion: Material installed beneath carpet to provide cushioning, insulation, and extend carpet life by absorbing impact.
Pile Reversal
Shading: A condition where areas of carpet appear lighter or darker than surrounding areas due to light reflecting differently off pile fibers that have changed direction. Not a manufacturing defect but a physical characteristic of cut pile carpets. Also known as watermarking or pooling.
Pile Crushing: The flattening of carpet fibers in high-traffic areas or under heavy furniture, resulting in a worn appearance. Can be minimized by selecting carpets with higher density, proper padding, and regular maintenance including vacuuming and professional cleaning.
Power Stretcher: A professional carpet installation tool that uses leverage and teeth to grip and stretch carpet tightly across a room. Essential for proper installation to prevent wrinkles, ripples, and premature wear. More effective than knee kickers for larger areas.
Persian Knot
Senneh Knot: One of the two main knot types used in hand-knotted Oriental rugs (the other being the Turkish/Ghiordes knot). The Persian knot is asymmetrical, with yarn wrapped around one warp thread and then passed behind the adjacent warp thread. This technique allows for more intricate, curvilinear designs and higher knot counts, making it preferred for detailed floral patterns in Persian rugs.
Prayer Rug: Small rugs designed for Islamic prayer rituals, featuring a mihrab (arch) design that indicates the direction of Mecca. These rugs typically measure about 3'x5' and have distinctive architectural elements, including a prayer niche or arch at one end. Traditional prayer rugs from different regions have characteristic designs, colors, and motifs that reflect local cultural influences.

Q

Quality Mark: Certification symbols on carpets indicating they meet specific industry standards for quality, durability, or environmental impact.
Quarter Turn Installation: A carpet tile installation method where each tile is rotated 90 degrees relative to adjacent tiles. This technique helps minimize visible seams, disguises slight color variations between tiles, and creates a more dynamic visual effect, especially with patterned carpet tiles.
Qum
Qom: A type of Persian rug made in the city of Qum (Qom), Iran. Known for their high knot density, intricate designs, and use of silk or fine wool. Qum rugs often feature detailed floral patterns, medallions, or hunting scenes and are considered among the finest Persian carpets.

R

Radial Tuft Placement: A tufting technique in machine-made carpets where tufts are placed in a radial pattern rather than in straight rows, creating more natural-looking designs.
Rug Pad: A cushioning layer placed under area rugs to prevent slipping, provide cushioning, protect the floor, and extend the life of the rug.
Restretch: The process of removing wrinkles and ripples in carpet by pulling it taut and reattaching it to the tack strips. Necessary when carpet becomes loose due to age, humidity changes, or heavy furniture movement.
Rug Repair: Specialized techniques to fix damaged rugs, including reweaving, patching, binding repair, fringe replacement, and color restoration. Often performed by specialists for valuable or antique rugs.
Recycled Carpet: Carpet made from post-consumer or post-industrial recycled materials. May include fibers made from recycled plastic bottles (PET), reclaimed nylon from used carpets, or recycled backing materials.

S

Saxony: A type of cut pile carpet with medium-length, twisted fibers that stand upright, creating a formal, velvet-like appearance.
Sisal: A natural fiber derived from the agave plant, used to make durable, textured carpets and rugs with excellent wear resistance.
Solution-Dyed: A dyeing method where color is added to the liquid synthetic fiber solution before extrusion, resulting in colorfast carpets highly resistant to fading and bleaching.
Sarouk
Sarouk Rug: Prestigious Persian rugs from the Sarouk village in the Arak region of Iran, known for their durability, high-quality wool, and distinctive designs. Traditional Sarouks feature floral patterns with a central medallion on a rich red or blue field. American Sarouks, produced for the U.S. market in the early 20th century, were often re-dyed to achieve a preferred rose-red color.
Serapi Rug: A type of antique Persian Heriz rug from northwestern Iran, known for their geometric patterns, bold designs, and earthy color palette. Serapi rugs are distinguished from other Heriz carpets by their more spacious designs, larger scale patterns, and typically older age (pre-1900). Highly prized by collectors for their decorative appeal and durability.
Soumak: A flat-woven rug technique that creates a textured surface resembling braiding or embroidery. Unlike kilims, soumaks have a raised pattern created by wrapping weft threads around warp threads. This technique produces durable rugs with distinctive geometric designs and a textured surface, traditionally made in the Caucasus region, Iran, and Turkey.
Sultanabad Rug: Antique Persian carpets from the Sultanabad (now Arak) region of Iran, known for their larger scale patterns and more relaxed, less formal designs compared to city rugs. Featuring stylized floral and vine motifs in a spacious layout, these rugs were often produced for Western markets in the 19th century and are highly valued for their decorative versatility and durability.

T

Tufted Carpet: The most common type of machine-made carpet, created by inserting yarn tufts into a backing material using high-speed tufting machines.
Twist Level: The number of turns per inch in a carpet yarn. Higher twist levels generally indicate better durability and appearance retention in cut pile carpets.
Triexta: A relatively new synthetic carpet fiber known for its exceptional stain resistance, durability, and softness. Often marketed under the brand name Sorona® by DuPont.
Tabriz Rug: Fine Persian carpets from the city of Tabriz in northwestern Iran, one of the oldest and most prestigious rug-making centers in the world. Known for their precise weaving, intricate designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. Traditional Tabriz rugs feature central medallions, detailed floral patterns, and hunting scenes, often woven with a distinctive double-weft construction that creates a durable, flat-lying carpet.
Tribal Rug: Carpets woven by nomadic or semi-nomadic tribal groups, characterized by bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and cultural symbolism. Unlike formal city rugs, tribal rugs often feature asymmetrical designs, natural dye variations, and motifs that tell stories of tribal life or contain protective symbols. Major tribal rug-producing groups include the Qashqai and Bakhtiari of Iran, Berber tribes of North Africa, and various Turkmen tribes.
Turkish Knot
Ghiordes Knot: One of the two main knot types used in hand-knotted Oriental rugs (the other being the Persian/Senneh knot). The Turkish knot is symmetrical, with yarn wrapped around two adjacent warp threads and pulled through between them. This technique creates a stronger, more durable knot but typically allows for fewer knots per square inch than the Persian knot, making it better suited for geometric designs.

U

Underlay: Material placed between the carpet and subfloor to provide cushioning, insulation, and extend carpet life. Also called padding or carpet cushion.
Ultrasonic Cutting: A precision cutting technique used in carpet manufacturing where ultrasonic vibrations generate heat to simultaneously cut and seal synthetic carpet fibers. This prevents fraying and creates clean, precise edges for intricate patterns or custom shapes.
Unitary Backing: A single-layer backing system applied to carpet, typically made of latex or synthetic materials. Unlike traditional carpets with primary and secondary backings, unitary-backed carpets have a single, more substantial backing layer that provides stability and dimensional integrity.
UV Resistance: A carpet's ability to withstand fading or degradation when exposed to ultraviolet light. Important for carpets in sunlit areas or outdoor applications. Solution-dyed fibers typically offer superior UV resistance compared to conventionally dyed carpets.

V

Velvet Carpet: A type of woven carpet with a smooth, dense cut pile surface resembling velvet fabric, often used in formal settings.
Viscose
Art Silk: A semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, used in carpets to create a silk-like appearance at a lower cost. Less durable than wool or synthetic fibers.

W

Wilton: A type of woven carpet made on a Wilton loom, known for its dense construction and ability to create intricate patterns. Often considered higher quality than tufted carpets.
Wool: A natural fiber used in high-quality carpets, prized for its durability, resilience, natural stain resistance, and fire-retardant properties.
Warp and Weft: In woven carpets, warp refers to the vertical threads on the loom, while weft refers to the horizontal threads woven through the warp.
Wear Rating
Wear Classification: A standardized system that indicates the durability of carpet and its suitability for different levels of foot traffic. Often expressed as light, medium, heavy, or extra heavy residential or commercial use.

X

X-Factor: In carpet manufacturing, refers to exceptional or unique features that distinguish a particular carpet from others, such as proprietary stain resistance technologies or exclusive fiber blends.
X-Stitch Tufting: A specialized tufting technique where the needles create an X-pattern in the carpet backing rather than straight rows. This method increases tuft bind strength and creates a more stable, durable carpet construction that resists pile distortion in high-traffic areas.
Xeriscaping Carpets: Outdoor carpet products specifically designed for water conservation landscaping (xeriscaping). These carpets are typically made from drought-resistant synthetic materials that require minimal maintenance and water, while providing an aesthetic alternative to natural grass in arid environments.
X-Protect Technology: A proprietary stain and soil resistance treatment applied to carpet fibers that creates a molecular shield around each fiber. This technology repels liquids and prevents stains from bonding to the carpet, making cleaning easier and extending the carpet lifespan.
Xylography in Carpet Design: The use of woodblock printing techniques to create patterns on carpets or to transfer designs onto weaving templates. This ancient technique involves carving designs into wooden blocks, applying dye, and stamping the pattern onto fabric or paper.

Y

Yarn Twist: The number of turns per inch in carpet yarn. Higher twist levels generally provide better durability and appearance retention, particularly in cut pile carpets.
Yarn Ply: The number of single yarns twisted together to form a carpet yarn. Two-ply or three-ply yarns are stronger and more durable than single-ply yarns.
Yarn Dyeing Methods: Various techniques for coloring carpet yarns, including beck dyeing (immersion in dye baths), continuous dyeing (application after tufting), space dyeing (multiple colors on a single yarn), and solution dyeing (color added to liquid polymer before extrusion). Each method offers different benefits for colorfastness, pattern capabilities, and environmental impact.
Yurt Rugs: Traditional floor coverings used in Central Asian nomadic dwellings (yurts). These rugs are typically made from wool with geometric patterns and serve both decorative and practical purposes, providing insulation and defining living spaces within the circular structure.
Yazd Carpet: Fine Persian carpets from the city of Yazd in central Iran, known for their intricate medallion designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Traditional Yazd carpets feature a central medallion with elaborate floral motifs, often incorporating silk highlights on a wool foundation. The color palette typically includes rich blues, reds, and ivories with distinctive curvilinear patterns influenced by the historic textile traditions of this ancient city.
Yoruk Rug
Yürük Rug: Tribal carpets woven by the Yoruk (Yürük) nomadic people of Anatolia and the Balkans. These distinctive rugs feature bold geometric designs, vibrant colors, and tribal symbols with cultural significance. Characterized by their coarse weave, sturdy construction, and use of natural dyes, Yoruk rugs often incorporate protective motifs and symbols representing fertility, family, and tribal identity.
Yarn Skein Dyeing: A traditional method of dyeing carpet yarn where loose skeins (loops) of yarn are immersed in dye baths before being spun and woven. This technique, common in handmade carpets, allows for subtle color variations known as abrash that give traditional rugs their characteristic depth and visual interest. The process is still used by artisans who create custom-dyed yarns for specialty carpets.

Z

Zero VOC: Carpets that emit extremely low or undetectable levels of Volatile Organic Compounds, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Z-Bar: A metal strip with a Z-shaped profile used in carpet installation to secure carpet edges where they meet different flooring surfaces or at doorways.
Ziegler
Ziegler Sultanabad: A type of Persian carpet originally produced for the European market in the late 19th century by the Ziegler & Co. firm. Characterized by modified traditional Persian designs with larger patterns and softer, more muted colors that appealed to Western tastes. Modern Ziegler carpets continue this tradition with elegant, accessible designs.
Zonation: The practice of using different carpet types or designs to define separate functional areas within a larger space. Common in open-plan environments where carpet changes can subtly indicate transitions between work, relaxation, or circulation zones without physical barriers.
Zagros Mountain Rugs: Tribal carpets produced by nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples living in the Zagros mountain range of western Iran. These distinctive rugs feature bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and tribal motifs that reflect the cultural heritage of groups like the Bakhtiari, Qashqai, and Luri. Characterized by their sturdy construction, natural dyes, and designs that tell stories of mountain life and tribal traditions.
Zilu
Zili: A traditional flat-woven textile from Iran, particularly the Yazd and Meybod regions. These cotton or wool floor coverings feature geometric patterns created using a special weaving technique that produces a reversible fabric with different patterns on each side. Historically used in mosques and homes, zilus typically display blue and white patterns with cultural and religious significance.
Zero Pile Carpet: A category of carpets with extremely low or non-existent pile height, including flat-weaves and certain low-profile commercial carpets. These floor coverings offer durability, easy maintenance, and accessibility benefits while providing sound absorption and comfort underfoot. Popular in high-traffic commercial spaces, healthcare facilities, and modern residential interiors where a minimal profile is desired.

A

Abrash: Natural color variations in handmade carpets due to differences in wool, dyes, or weaving techniques. Often considered a desirable characteristic in authentic handmade rugs.
Acrylic: A synthetic fiber used in carpet manufacturing known for its wool-like appearance, softness, and resistance to staining, fading, and mildew.
Anatolian Rug: Handmade rugs from Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), known for their distinctive geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and cultural symbolism. These rugs often feature stylized motifs representing fertility, protection, and good fortune, with techniques dating back thousands of years.
Ardabil Carpet: Famous Persian carpets originally from the Ardabil region in northwestern Iran. The most renowned example is displayed in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, dating from the 16th century. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, medallion design, and historical significance in Islamic art.
Axminster: A type of machine-made carpet with a cut pile surface, known for intricate patterns and durability. Named after the town of Axminster in England where it was first produced.
Anti-Static Treatment: A chemical application to carpet fibers that reduces static electricity buildup, particularly important in commercial environments with electronic equipment.
Aubusson: A flat-woven decorative carpet originally produced in France, characterized by floral designs, medallions, and architectural elements in pastel colors. Traditional Aubussons were handwoven tapestries used by French nobility.
Area Rug Sizing: Standard dimensions for area rugs, typically including 2'x3', 3'x5', 4'x6', 5'x8', 8'x10', 9'x12', and 12'x15'. Proper sizing ensures the rug fits the room appropriately, with furniture either fully on or off the rug depending on design principles.
Ageing Treatment: A finishing process applied to new carpets to give them an antique or vintage appearance. May include chemical washing, sun exposure, or mechanical distressing to create a worn, faded look that mimics the patina of an older carpet.

B

Backing: The material on the underside of a carpet that provides stability and structure. Primary backing holds the carpet fibers, while secondary backing adds strength and dimensional stability.
Berber: A style of carpet characterized by loops of the same height, often flecked with color. Originally referred to handmade North African carpets but now commonly refers to loop pile carpets with a distinctive speckled appearance.
Broadloom: Carpet manufactured in wide widths (typically 12 or 15 feet) on a broad loom. Refers to wall-to-wall carpeting as opposed to carpet tiles or area rugs.
Binding: A strip of fabric sewn along the edge of a carpet or rug to prevent fraying and provide a finished look. Common in area rugs and stair runners.
Biophilic Carpet Design: Carpet patterns and textures inspired by nature, designed to bring elements of the natural world into interior spaces. Part of the broader biophilic design movement that aims to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment.
Bokhara
Bukhara: A type of handmade rug traditionally from Central Asia (particularly Turkmenistan), characterized by repeated geometric patterns, often featuring octagonal or diamond-shaped motifs (guls) on a red or burgundy background.
Baluchi Rug
Baluch Rug: Tribal rugs made by the Baluch people of eastern Iran, southern Afghanistan, and western Pakistan. Known for their dark, rich colors (deep blues, reds, and browns), geometric designs, and the use of camel hair and wool. Often feature prayer designs, tree of life motifs, and stylized animals.
Bidjar
Bijar: Persian rugs from the Kurdish town of Bidjar in northwestern Iran, known as the "Iron Rugs of Persia" due to their exceptional durability and dense weave. Feature intricate floral and geometric designs with a distinctive tight weave that makes them extremely sturdy and long-lasting.

C

Cut Pile: A carpet construction where the loops of yarn are cut at the top, creating a plush surface with individual tufts standing upright.
CRI Green Label Plus: A certification program by the Carpet and Rug Institute that identifies carpets, adhesives, and cushions with very low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions for better indoor air quality.
Coir: A natural fiber extracted from coconut husks, used to make durable entrance mats and rugs with excellent scraping properties.
Carpet Cleaning Methods: Various techniques for cleaning carpets including hot water extraction (steam cleaning), dry compound cleaning, bonnet cleaning, and encapsulation. Each method has specific applications depending on carpet type, soiling level, and drying time requirements.
Carpet Tiles
Modular Carpet: Square sections of carpet (typically 18"×18" or 24"×24") that can be installed individually and replaced as needed. Popular in commercial settings for their flexibility, ease of installation, and reduced waste during replacement.
Carved Carpet: A carpet with a design created by cutting pile to different heights, creating a three-dimensional, sculptured effect. Often used to add visual interest and texture to solid-colored carpets.
Cradle to Cradle Certification: A globally recognized measure of safer, more sustainable products made for the circular economy. For carpets, it evaluates material health, product circularity, clean air and climate protection, water and soil stewardship, and social fairness.

D

Denier: A unit of measurement for the linear mass density of fibers. Higher denier indicates thicker, more durable carpet fibers.
Dhurrie
Durrie: A flat-woven rug from India, traditionally made of cotton or wool, characterized by geometric patterns and reversible design.
Direct Glue-Down: A carpet installation method where adhesive is applied directly to the subfloor and the carpet is laid on top. Common in commercial settings and for carpet tiles, providing a secure installation without the need for padding.
Double Stick: A carpet installation method where the padding is glued to the subfloor, and then the carpet is glued to the padding. Provides extra stability and is often used in high-traffic commercial areas.
Density: A measure of how tightly packed carpet fibers are within the pile. Higher density generally indicates better durability and performance. Calculated by multiplying the face weight by 36 and dividing by the pile height.

E

Euroclass Fire Rating System: A European classification system for the fire performance of construction products, including floor coverings. Ranges from A (non-combustible) to F (easily flammable), with additional smoke production (s) and flaming droplets (d) classifications.
Ecotex Standard 100: An international certification system that ensures textiles, including carpets, are tested for harmful substances and are safe for human use.
End-on-End Weave: A carpet weaving technique where alternating warp threads are raised and lowered to create a textured appearance.
Eco-Friendly Carpet: Carpets manufactured with sustainable materials, low environmental impact production methods, and recyclable components. May include carpets made from recycled materials, natural fibers, or those produced with reduced water and energy consumption.
Environmental Product Declaration (EPD): A transparent, objective report that communicates the environmental performance and impact of a carpet throughout its lifecycle. EPDs are based on international standards and life cycle assessment methodology.
Engineered Flooring: A type of flooring that combines multiple layers of different materials for improved stability and performance. In the context of carpet, may refer to carpet tiles with engineered backing systems designed for specific performance characteristics.
Erased Carpet
Distressed Carpet: A style of carpet that has been deliberately treated to create a worn, vintage appearance. The process typically involves chemical washing, mechanical distressing, or color reduction techniques to simulate the patina of age and wear, creating an antique look with contemporary durability.
Esari Turkmen Rug: Traditional carpets woven by the Esari tribe of Turkmenistan, characterized by their distinctive deep red background and geometric gul (medallion) patterns. These rugs typically feature a primary elephant foot gul design with secondary motifs arranged in orderly rows, and are known for their fine weave and rich cultural symbolism.

F

Face Weight: The weight of the pile yarn in a carpet, measured in ounces per square yard. Higher face weight generally indicates a denser, more durable carpet.
Frieze
Frieze Carpet: A type of cut pile carpet with tightly twisted fibers that curl in different directions, creating a textured, casual appearance with excellent durability and ability to hide footprints.
Fire Retardant Treatment: Chemical processes applied to carpets to reduce flammability and meet fire safety standards. Common treatments include applying flame-retardant chemicals during manufacturing.
Flatweave
Flat-Woven Carpet: A type of carpet constructed without pile, where the warp and weft threads are woven together to create a flat surface. Examples include kilims, dhurries, and soumaks. Flatweaves are typically reversible, lightweight, and easier to clean than pile carpets, making them popular for casual spaces and warmer climates.
Ferahan Rug
Feraghan Rug: Antique Persian carpets from the Ferahan (or Feraghan) plain in central Iran, known for their all-over Herati patterns and subtle color palettes. These 19th-century rugs typically feature a diamond lattice design with small floral motifs, often in navy blue, rust red, and ivory. Highly regarded for their fine weave, balanced compositions, and elegant restraint.
Felted Wool Carpet: A type of carpet made by compressing and matting wool fibers together using heat, moisture, and pressure rather than weaving or tufting. The resulting material is dense, durable, and naturally water-resistant. Modern felted wool carpets combine traditional techniques with contemporary designs for a unique textile that provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.
Flokati: A traditional handmade Greek rug characterized by its long, shaggy pile made from 100% wool. Authentic Flokati rugs are woven in Greece, then washed in the cold waters of the Pindus mountains, causing the wool to fluff and create their distinctive fluffy texture. Originally used by shepherds for warmth, they are now popular decorative pieces known for their luxurious softness and natural cream color.

G

Gabbeh: A type of handmade Persian rug characterized by thick pile, simple designs, and bright colors. Traditionally made by nomadic tribes for practical use.
Gauge: In machine-made carpets, refers to the distance between needles on the tufting machine. Lower gauge numbers indicate more needles per inch and a denser carpet.
Ghiordes Knot
Turkish Knot: One of the two primary knot types used in hand-knotted carpets, where the yarn is wrapped around two adjacent warp threads and then pulled back between them. This symmetrical knot creates a stronger, more durable carpet but allows fewer knots per square inch than the asymmetrical Persian knot. Named after the town of Ghiordes (modern Gördes) in Turkey, it is commonly used in Turkish, Caucasian, and some Persian carpets.
Gul
Gol: An octagonal or polygonal medallion motif commonly found in Turkmen tribal rugs. These distinctive medallions serve as tribal emblems, with each Turkmen tribe (Tekke, Salor, Ersari, etc.) having its own characteristic gul design. The word means "flower" or "rose" in Persian, though the designs are highly geometric and stylized rather than floral in appearance.
Gorevan Carpet
Heriz Gorevan: A type of Persian carpet from the Heriz district in northwestern Iran, specifically from the village of Gorevan. These rugs feature bold, geometric patterns with large central medallions and corner pieces in rich reds, blues, and ivory. Compared to standard Heriz rugs, Gorevans typically have a coarser weave, more angular designs, and a distinctive rustic character that makes them popular for traditional and transitional interiors.
Green Cleaning: Environmentally friendly carpet cleaning methods that use non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning agents and reduced water consumption. These approaches minimize chemical residues, decrease indoor air pollution, and reduce environmental impact while still effectively cleaning carpets. Methods may include plant-based cleaners, steam cleaning with minimal chemical use, or encapsulation cleaning that reduces water waste.

H

Hand-Knotted: A carpet weaving technique where individual knots are tied by hand around warp threads, creating durable, high-quality rugs. Common in Persian, Oriental, and Turkish carpets.
Heat-Set: A manufacturing process where twisted synthetic fibers are heat-treated to set the twist permanently, improving durability and appearance retention.
Heathered: A carpet appearance created by blending different colored yarns together, resulting in a mottled, textured look.
Herati Pattern
Mahi Design: A classic Persian carpet design featuring a central diamond with a flower in the middle, surrounded by curved leaves. Often used as a repeating pattern in the field of many Persian rugs, especially those from Tabriz, Kerman, and Kashan. The name "Mahi" (meaning fish) comes from the leaf shapes resembling fish.
Hamadan Rug: Rugs from the Hamadan province in northwestern Iran, one of the oldest rug-making regions in the world. These village and tribal rugs feature geometric designs, bold colors, and are typically made as smaller pieces. Known for their durability and distinctive single-weft construction.
Hali: The Turkish word for carpet or rug. Also the name of a prestigious international magazine dedicated to antique carpets, textiles, and Islamic art.

I

Ikat: A dyeing technique used in carpet making where yarns are tie-dyed before weaving, creating blurred or feathered patterns.
Indoor-Outdoor Carpet: Carpets made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene that resist moisture, mildew, and UV fading, suitable for both interior and exterior use.
Isfahan Rug: Luxurious Persian carpets from the city of Isfahan in central Iran, considered among the finest in the world. Known for their intricate floral patterns, high knot density (often exceeding 500 KPSI), silk highlights, and exceptional craftsmanship. Traditional Isfahan designs feature a central medallion with elaborate corner pieces and borders.

J

Jute: A natural fiber used in carpet backing and sometimes as pile material. Known for its strength but susceptible to moisture damage.
Jacquard Weave: A complex weaving technique used in carpet manufacturing that allows for intricate, detailed patterns through individual control of warp threads.
Jaipuri Rug: Handcrafted carpets from Jaipur, India, known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Traditional Jaipuri rugs feature distinctive floral patterns, geometric motifs, and sometimes incorporate block-printing techniques. These rugs often use a cotton foundation with wool pile and are renowned for their craftsmanship, with techniques passed down through generations of artisans in Rajasthan.
Jajim: A traditional flat-woven textile from Iran and the Caucasus region, similar to kilims but typically woven in narrow strips that are sewn together. Jajims feature colorful stripes and simple geometric patterns, often in bright blues, reds, and yellows. Historically used as floor coverings, bedspreads, or wrapping cloths by nomadic tribes, they are now appreciated as decorative textiles and wall hangings.
Jufti Knot
False Knot: A carpet knotting technique where the yarn is wrapped around four warp threads instead of the usual two (Turkish knot) or one-and-a-half (Persian knot). This shortcut allows weavers to create carpets more quickly but results in lower knot density and potentially reduced durability. Jufti knotting is sometimes used in commercial production to speed up the weaving process while maintaining the appearance of a densely knotted carpet.

K

Kilim: A flat-woven rug without pile, traditionally made in Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, and the Balkans. Known for geometric patterns and created by interweaving colored weft threads with warp threads.
Knot Count
KPSI: Knots Per Square Inch, a measure of quality in hand-knotted rugs. Higher knot counts generally indicate finer detail and higher quality.
Kashan Rug: Fine Persian carpets from the city of Kashan in central Iran, known for their high-quality wool, precise weaving, and classic medallion designs. Traditional Kashan rugs feature a central medallion, intricate floral patterns, and rich color palettes dominated by reds, blues, and ivories.
Kerman Rug: Prestigious Persian carpets from the Kerman province in southeastern Iran, known for their varied designs, fine weave, and durability. Kerman rugs often feature intricate floral patterns, pictorial scenes, or the distinctive "vase" technique. Their palette typically includes soft blues, reds, and ivory tones.
Kazak Rug
Kazakh Rug: Bold, geometric rugs traditionally made by Caucasian tribes in the Kazak region (now parts of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia). Known for their vibrant colors, geometric medallions, and tribal motifs. Modern Kazak-style rugs are also produced in countries like Pakistan and India.

L

Level Loop Pile: A carpet construction where yarn loops are all the same height, creating a uniform, textured surface with excellent durability and soil hiding capabilities.
Low VOC: Carpets with low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds, which contribute to better indoor air quality and reduced chemical emissions.
Latex Backing: A synthetic rubber compound applied to the back of carpets to secure the tufts and provide dimensional stability. Available in various formulations including SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) and synthetic latex, which offer different levels of flexibility and durability.
Loop Pile: A carpet construction where the yarn forms loops that remain uncut on the surface. Available in level loop (all loops the same height) or multi-level loop (varying heights to create patterns or texture). Generally more durable and less prone to crushing than cut pile carpets.
Loom: The machine used to weave carpets by interlacing warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) threads. Traditional carpet looms include Wilton, Axminster, and Jacquard looms, each producing different types of woven carpets with distinct characteristics and capabilities.

M

Medallion: A central design element in many Oriental and Persian carpets, typically a symmetrical pattern that anchors the overall design.
Moth-Proofing: Treatment applied to wool carpets to prevent moth larvae from feeding on the fibers.
Matelassé: A weaving or stitching technique that creates a quilted or padded appearance in fabrics, sometimes used in decorative carpets and upholstery.

N

Nap: The direction of the pile fibers in a carpet. When viewed from different angles, the carpet may appear lighter or darker depending on the nap direction.
Nylon: A synthetic fiber commonly used in carpet manufacturing, known for its durability, resilience, and stain resistance when properly treated.
Nain Rug
Na'in Rug: Exquisite Persian carpets from the city of Nain in central Iran, known for their extremely fine weave, delicate patterns, and light color palette. Typically feature a central medallion with intricate floral motifs on an ivory or light blue background. Often include silk highlights and can reach knot counts of 700 KPSI in the finest examples.
Nomadic Rugs: Carpets woven by nomadic tribes across the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa. These rugs are characterized by bold geometric designs, tribal symbols, and portable loom construction. Unlike city or workshop rugs, nomadic rugs often feature asymmetry, color variations, and designs passed down through generations without written patterns.

O

Olefin
Polypropylene: A synthetic fiber used in carpet manufacturing, known for its excellent stain and moisture resistance, colorfastness, and affordability.
Oriental Rug: Handmade rugs originating from Eastern countries including Persia (Iran), Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and China. Known for intricate designs, high knot counts, and traditional patterns. Oriental rugs are categorized by their region of origin, weaving technique, design elements, and materials, with each area producing distinctive styles that reflect local cultural traditions and artistic expressions.
Overdyed Rug: A technique where vintage or antique rugs are bleached to remove original colors and then re-dyed, typically in vibrant, saturated hues like turquoise, purple, or hot pink. This process gives traditional Oriental rugs a contemporary look while preserving their original patterns and textures. Popular in modern interior design for adding a bold color statement with traditional patterns.

P

Pile: The surface of the carpet consisting of upright fibers, either in loops or cut tufts. Pile height refers to the length of these fibers from the backing.
PET
Polyester: A synthetic carpet fiber made from recycled plastic bottles, known for its softness, stain resistance, and eco-friendly properties.
Padding
Carpet Cushion: Material installed beneath carpet to provide cushioning, insulation, and extend carpet life by absorbing impact.
Pile Reversal
Shading: A condition where areas of carpet appear lighter or darker than surrounding areas due to light reflecting differently off pile fibers that have changed direction. Not a manufacturing defect but a physical characteristic of cut pile carpets. Also known as watermarking or pooling.
Pile Crushing: The flattening of carpet fibers in high-traffic areas or under heavy furniture, resulting in a worn appearance. Can be minimized by selecting carpets with higher density, proper padding, and regular maintenance including vacuuming and professional cleaning.
Power Stretcher: A professional carpet installation tool that uses leverage and teeth to grip and stretch carpet tightly across a room. Essential for proper installation to prevent wrinkles, ripples, and premature wear. More effective than knee kickers for larger areas.
Persian Knot
Senneh Knot: One of the two main knot types used in hand-knotted Oriental rugs (the other being the Turkish/Ghiordes knot). The Persian knot is asymmetrical, with yarn wrapped around one warp thread and then passed behind the adjacent warp thread. This technique allows for more intricate, curvilinear designs and higher knot counts, making it preferred for detailed floral patterns in Persian rugs.
Prayer Rug: Small rugs designed for Islamic prayer rituals, featuring a mihrab (arch) design that indicates the direction of Mecca. These rugs typically measure about 3'x5' and have distinctive architectural elements, including a prayer niche or arch at one end. Traditional prayer rugs from different regions have characteristic designs, colors, and motifs that reflect local cultural influences.

Q

Quality Mark: Certification symbols on carpets indicating they meet specific industry standards for quality, durability, or environmental impact.
Quarter Turn Installation: A carpet tile installation method where each tile is rotated 90 degrees relative to adjacent tiles. This technique helps minimize visible seams, disguises slight color variations between tiles, and creates a more dynamic visual effect, especially with patterned carpet tiles.
Qum
Qom: A type of Persian rug made in the city of Qum (Qom), Iran. Known for their high knot density, intricate designs, and use of silk or fine wool. Qum rugs often feature detailed floral patterns, medallions, or hunting scenes and are considered among the finest Persian carpets.

R

Radial Tuft Placement: A tufting technique in machine-made carpets where tufts are placed in a radial pattern rather than in straight rows, creating more natural-looking designs.
Rug Pad: A cushioning layer placed under area rugs to prevent slipping, provide cushioning, protect the floor, and extend the life of the rug.
Restretch: The process of removing wrinkles and ripples in carpet by pulling it taut and reattaching it to the tack strips. Necessary when carpet becomes loose due to age, humidity changes, or heavy furniture movement.
Rug Repair: Specialized techniques to fix damaged rugs, including reweaving, patching, binding repair, fringe replacement, and color restoration. Often performed by specialists for valuable or antique rugs.
Recycled Carpet: Carpet made from post-consumer or post-industrial recycled materials. May include fibers made from recycled plastic bottles (PET), reclaimed nylon from used carpets, or recycled backing materials.

S

Saxony: A type of cut pile carpet with medium-length, twisted fibers that stand upright, creating a formal, velvet-like appearance.
Sisal: A natural fiber derived from the agave plant, used to make durable, textured carpets and rugs with excellent wear resistance.
Solution-Dyed: A dyeing method where color is added to the liquid synthetic fiber solution before extrusion, resulting in colorfast carpets highly resistant to fading and bleaching.
Sarouk
Sarouk Rug: Prestigious Persian rugs from the Sarouk village in the Arak region of Iran, known for their durability, high-quality wool, and distinctive designs. Traditional Sarouks feature floral patterns with a central medallion on a rich red or blue field. American Sarouks, produced for the U.S. market in the early 20th century, were often re-dyed to achieve a preferred rose-red color.
Serapi Rug: A type of antique Persian Heriz rug from northwestern Iran, known for their geometric patterns, bold designs, and earthy color palette. Serapi rugs are distinguished from other Heriz carpets by their more spacious designs, larger scale patterns, and typically older age (pre-1900). Highly prized by collectors for their decorative appeal and durability.
Soumak: A flat-woven rug technique that creates a textured surface resembling braiding or embroidery. Unlike kilims, soumaks have a raised pattern created by wrapping weft threads around warp threads. This technique produces durable rugs with distinctive geometric designs and a textured surface, traditionally made in the Caucasus region, Iran, and Turkey.
Sultanabad Rug: Antique Persian carpets from the Sultanabad (now Arak) region of Iran, known for their larger scale patterns and more relaxed, less formal designs compared to city rugs. Featuring stylized floral and vine motifs in a spacious layout, these rugs were often produced for Western markets in the 19th century and are highly valued for their decorative versatility and durability.

T

Tufted Carpet: The most common type of machine-made carpet, created by inserting yarn tufts into a backing material using high-speed tufting machines.
Twist Level: The number of turns per inch in a carpet yarn. Higher twist levels generally indicate better durability and appearance retention in cut pile carpets.
Triexta: A relatively new synthetic carpet fiber known for its exceptional stain resistance, durability, and softness. Often marketed under the brand name Sorona® by DuPont.
Tabriz Rug: Fine Persian carpets from the city of Tabriz in northwestern Iran, one of the oldest and most prestigious rug-making centers in the world. Known for their precise weaving, intricate designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. Traditional Tabriz rugs feature central medallions, detailed floral patterns, and hunting scenes, often woven with a distinctive double-weft construction that creates a durable, flat-lying carpet.
Tribal Rug: Carpets woven by nomadic or semi-nomadic tribal groups, characterized by bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and cultural symbolism. Unlike formal city rugs, tribal rugs often feature asymmetrical designs, natural dye variations, and motifs that tell stories of tribal life or contain protective symbols. Major tribal rug-producing groups include the Qashqai and Bakhtiari of Iran, Berber tribes of North Africa, and various Turkmen tribes.
Turkish Knot
Ghiordes Knot: One of the two main knot types used in hand-knotted Oriental rugs (the other being the Persian/Senneh knot). The Turkish knot is symmetrical, with yarn wrapped around two adjacent warp threads and pulled through between them. This technique creates a stronger, more durable knot but typically allows for fewer knots per square inch than the Persian knot, making it better suited for geometric designs.

U

Underlay: Material placed between the carpet and subfloor to provide cushioning, insulation, and extend carpet life. Also called padding or carpet cushion.
Ultrasonic Cutting: A precision cutting technique used in carpet manufacturing where ultrasonic vibrations generate heat to simultaneously cut and seal synthetic carpet fibers. This prevents fraying and creates clean, precise edges for intricate patterns or custom shapes.
Unitary Backing: A single-layer backing system applied to carpet, typically made of latex or synthetic materials. Unlike traditional carpets with primary and secondary backings, unitary-backed carpets have a single, more substantial backing layer that provides stability and dimensional integrity.
UV Resistance: A carpet's ability to withstand fading or degradation when exposed to ultraviolet light. Important for carpets in sunlit areas or outdoor applications. Solution-dyed fibers typically offer superior UV resistance compared to conventionally dyed carpets.

V

Velvet Carpet: A type of woven carpet with a smooth, dense cut pile surface resembling velvet fabric, often used in formal settings.
Viscose
Art Silk: A semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, used in carpets to create a silk-like appearance at a lower cost. Less durable than wool or synthetic fibers.

W

Wilton: A type of woven carpet made on a Wilton loom, known for its dense construction and ability to create intricate patterns. Often considered higher quality than tufted carpets.
Wool: A natural fiber used in high-quality carpets, prized for its durability, resilience, natural stain resistance, and fire-retardant properties.
Warp and Weft: In woven carpets, warp refers to the vertical threads on the loom, while weft refers to the horizontal threads woven through the warp.
Wear Rating
Wear Classification: A standardized system that indicates the durability of carpet and its suitability for different levels of foot traffic. Often expressed as light, medium, heavy, or extra heavy residential or commercial use.

X

X-Factor: In carpet manufacturing, refers to exceptional or unique features that distinguish a particular carpet from others, such as proprietary stain resistance technologies or exclusive fiber blends.
X-Stitch Tufting: A specialized tufting technique where the needles create an X-pattern in the carpet backing rather than straight rows. This method increases tuft bind strength and creates a more stable, durable carpet construction that resists pile distortion in high-traffic areas.
Xeriscaping Carpets: Outdoor carpet products specifically designed for water conservation landscaping (xeriscaping). These carpets are typically made from drought-resistant synthetic materials that require minimal maintenance and water, while providing an aesthetic alternative to natural grass in arid environments.
X-Protect Technology: A proprietary stain and soil resistance treatment applied to carpet fibers that creates a molecular shield around each fiber. This technology repels liquids and prevents stains from bonding to the carpet, making cleaning easier and extending the carpet lifespan.
Xylography in Carpet Design: The use of woodblock printing techniques to create patterns on carpets or to transfer designs onto weaving templates. This ancient technique involves carving designs into wooden blocks, applying dye, and stamping the pattern onto fabric or paper.

Y

Yarn Twist: The number of turns per inch in carpet yarn. Higher twist levels generally provide better durability and appearance retention, particularly in cut pile carpets.
Yarn Ply: The number of single yarns twisted together to form a carpet yarn. Two-ply or three-ply yarns are stronger and more durable than single-ply yarns.
Yarn Dyeing Methods: Various techniques for coloring carpet yarns, including beck dyeing (immersion in dye baths), continuous dyeing (application after tufting), space dyeing (multiple colors on a single yarn), and solution dyeing (color added to liquid polymer before extrusion). Each method offers different benefits for colorfastness, pattern capabilities, and environmental impact.
Yurt Rugs: Traditional floor coverings used in Central Asian nomadic dwellings (yurts). These rugs are typically made from wool with geometric patterns and serve both decorative and practical purposes, providing insulation and defining living spaces within the circular structure.
Yazd Carpet: Fine Persian carpets from the city of Yazd in central Iran, known for their intricate medallion designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Traditional Yazd carpets feature a central medallion with elaborate floral motifs, often incorporating silk highlights on a wool foundation. The color palette typically includes rich blues, reds, and ivories with distinctive curvilinear patterns influenced by the historic textile traditions of this ancient city.
Yoruk Rug
Yürük Rug: Tribal carpets woven by the Yoruk (Yürük) nomadic people of Anatolia and the Balkans. These distinctive rugs feature bold geometric designs, vibrant colors, and tribal symbols with cultural significance. Characterized by their coarse weave, sturdy construction, and use of natural dyes, Yoruk rugs often incorporate protective motifs and symbols representing fertility, family, and tribal identity.
Yarn Skein Dyeing: A traditional method of dyeing carpet yarn where loose skeins (loops) of yarn are immersed in dye baths before being spun and woven. This technique, common in handmade carpets, allows for subtle color variations known as abrash that give traditional rugs their characteristic depth and visual interest. The process is still used by artisans who create custom-dyed yarns for specialty carpets.

Z

Zero VOC: Carpets that emit extremely low or undetectable levels of Volatile Organic Compounds, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Z-Bar: A metal strip with a Z-shaped profile used in carpet installation to secure carpet edges where they meet different flooring surfaces or at doorways.
Ziegler
Ziegler Sultanabad: A type of Persian carpet originally produced for the European market in the late 19th century by the Ziegler & Co. firm. Characterized by modified traditional Persian designs with larger patterns and softer, more muted colors that appealed to Western tastes. Modern Ziegler carpets continue this tradition with elegant, accessible designs.
Zonation: The practice of using different carpet types or designs to define separate functional areas within a larger space. Common in open-plan environments where carpet changes can subtly indicate transitions between work, relaxation, or circulation zones without physical barriers.
Zagros Mountain Rugs: Tribal carpets produced by nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples living in the Zagros mountain range of western Iran. These distinctive rugs feature bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and tribal motifs that reflect the cultural heritage of groups like the Bakhtiari, Qashqai, and Luri. Characterized by their sturdy construction, natural dyes, and designs that tell stories of mountain life and tribal traditions.
Zilu
Zili: A traditional flat-woven textile from Iran, particularly the Yazd and Meybod regions. These cotton or wool floor coverings feature geometric patterns created using a special weaving technique that produces a reversible fabric with different patterns on each side. Historically used in mosques and homes, zilus typically display blue and white patterns with cultural and religious significance.
Zero Pile Carpet: A category of carpets with extremely low or non-existent pile height, including flat-weaves and certain low-profile commercial carpets. These floor coverings offer durability, easy maintenance, and accessibility benefits while providing sound absorption and comfort underfoot. Popular in high-traffic commercial spaces, healthcare facilities, and modern residential interiors where a minimal profile is desired.

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