Top 6 Signs You’re Buying a Genuine Handmade Carpet
Buying a handmade carpet is more than a décor choice—it’s an investment in craftsmanship, heritage, and quality. But with machine-made rugs becoming more convincing, spotting an authentic handmade carpet can be tricky. Here are six reliable ways to tell the difference.
1. Check the BackTurn the carpet over. A genuine handmade carpet shows the pattern clearly on the reverse, with visible individual knots. Machine-made rugs often have a backing glued on with latex or jute.
2. Look for Small IrregularitiesTiny imperfections in shape, pattern, or symmetry are a good sign. Handmade carpets reflect human craftsmanship, which naturally creates subtle variations.
3. Notice Color Variations (Abrash)
Authentic handmade rugs often have slight shade changes throughout the design due to hand-dyeing techniques. These tonal shifts add character and uniqueness.
4. Inspect the Fringe
On handmade carpets, the fringe is part of the foundation of the rug. If it appears stitched or attached separately, it’s likely machine-made.
5. Feel the Pile
Handmade rugs may have minor variations in pile height, creating a softer, more organic texture compared with the uniform surface of machine-made rugs.
6. Test the WeightGenuine handmade carpets are usually heavier and denser because of the hand-knotting process and natural materials like wool or silk.
Choosing a real handmade carpet means owning a piece of artistry with lasting value. When buying online, always choose trusted sellers who provide detailed images, material information, and transparent craftsmanship details.
