What is a Soumak rug? Handmade Rug Education

Soumak area rugs are not like other rugs you usually see. In this post we will explore what makes them different and why they might be right for your home decor or design project!

Present day photo of the Caucasus - Main Street Oriental Rugs

(The Caucasus in present day | photo credit)

Soumak rugs most likely originated in the Shirvan region of the Caucasus in the 17th century and, eventually, went on to be woven in parts of Iran by the Kurds and the Shahsavan tribe, and also in parts of Afghanistan. In present day, Soumak rugs are primarily woven in the large weaving districts of India.

Hand knotted rugs vs hand woven rugs

Soumak rugs are different from piled rugs because of the unique weaving techniques used to create them. Unlike the piled area rugs we're most used to seeing, Soumak rugs do not have a pile at all. In fact, a Soumak rug is more closely related to a tapestry that you might hang on a wall. The tapestry-like weaves used to create Soumak rugs give them a coarse feel and a textured look -- think earthy and rustic.

Sheep's wool is sheared and turned into yarn

After hair from a sheep is sheared, the wool collected from the animal is spun by hand to create bundles of yarn that a weaver will turn into a beautiful area rug.

Soumak weave

The soumak weave is 4 warps wrapped with 4 weft threads.

Although, Soumak rugs are not as long-lasting as most piled rugs can be, they are still sturdy and a happy medium between a flat-weave and a piled rug. Soumak rugs are perfect for home designs that want to incorporate more texture and lend themselves well to boho decor, farmhouse decor, cozy cabin decor or mixing modern and traditional decor.