Wool Rugs: Everything You Need to Know

Today we want to take you to a world of softness and tradition, craftsmanship and color: we will talk about wool in interior design, and in particular about the production of furnishing textiles par excellence: rugs. And we will not only talk about our Moroccan rugs , but more generally about wool rugs.

Today , the most popular handmade wool rugs in the world are those produced in Morocco . Also called Berber or Amazigh, they are unique handcrafted pieces made with quality raw materials, and enjoy a thousand-year tradition and unparalleled craftsmanship. In most cases, they are sheep wool rugs characterized by designs, motifs and colors whose variety makes them easily adaptable to modern or classic environments.

Equally valuable are of course the legendary Persians. Other countries that stand out for their use of wool are Turkey, India, Nepal and Tibet, Afghanistan and New Zealand, a country not traditionally linked to the manufacture of furnishing textiles, but which is specializing in the export of very fine merino wool for the creation of designer rugs.

Here's what we'll talk about:

• History of wool
• What is wool and how is it obtained?
• Processes and typologies
• Dye and colors
• Routine care and maintenance
• Extraordinary washing and cleaning
• Why choose a wool rug
• Where to put it in the house
• Focus on underfloor heating
• Curiosities about wool

But let's start from the past: when did they start using wool to weave rugs? What are the first testimonies of their use? We will answer these and other questions in this long article. Follow us!

A Brief History of the Use of Wool in Rugs

The history of wool woven into rugs is a fascinating journey spanning millennia of culture and craftsmanship.

The first traces of its use date back to around 7000 BC , when man began to domesticate sheep to obtain textile fibres.

Already in the Paleolithic era, European and Mesopotamian pastoral communities exploited wool to create fabrics. A significant turning point occurred during the Bronze Age (around 3000 BC), when wool fabrics spread to the Aegean and the Middle East, as evidenced by the discovery of over 8,000 spindles in Troy.

The practice of sheep farming and the use of wool for textile purposes are frequently mentioned in the Bible, in ancient Assyrian and Babylonian texts, as well as in Homer's Odyssey, dating back to the 9th century BC.

One of the most extraordinary finds is the Pazyryk carpet , found in the icy Scythian tombs of the Altai and dated to around 500 BC: with its complex designs and natural colors obtained from indigo and cochineal, it testifies to a technical mastery that still inspires craftsmen today. 500 BC - incredible, isn't it?

During the classical era , wool became a key material for the textile economies of Greece and Rome . The ancient Greeks selected sheep for their fine fleeces, and wool processing was so widespread that it appears in painted ceramics, where women are depicted spinning and weaving. In Rome, wool art reached a high level of sophistication: wool workshops produced yarns of different qualities, such as “soft” or “hirsuta” wool, and dyeing, carding and weaving techniques were developed that laid the foundations for later processes. These fabrics were used not only for clothing, but also for artifacts such as rugs and decorative coverings, which were found in aristocratic homes as well as in temples.

In the Middle East and North Africa, wool carpet weaving took on a symbolic and artistic role . Morocco in particular became famous for its handcrafted rugs , such as the Beni Ourain and the kilim. Here, the wool of local sheep, soft and resistant, is still worked today with ancestral techniques. Moroccan rugs stand out for their geometric motifs, rich in symbolism, telling stories of protection, fertility and connection with nature.
The colors, obtained from natural pigments such as madder and reseda, add depth and warmth to these works of art. And on our e-shop you have many examples!

With the advent of modernity, wool has maintained its centrality thanks to its versatility and sustainability. Wool rugs, in fact, are appreciated for their durability and insulating capacity, making them suitable for both traditional and contemporary environments . However, their value is not only practical: choosing a handmade wool rug means supporting local economies and preserving ancient traditions . In the world of interior design, these rugs represent the perfect combination of functionality and aesthetics, bringing an authentic touch of history and craftsmanship into homes. Thus, each wool rug tells a story that intertwines past and present, from the frozen steppes of the Altai to the warm lands of Morocco, uniting distant cultures under the sign of elegance and craftsmanship.

What is wool and how is it obtained?

Wool is a natural fiber of animal origin, obtained from the coat of various animals through a shearing and processing process . Its structure is mainly composed of keratin, a protein that makes this fiber elastic, resistant and heat insulating. Although the term "wool" commonly refers to the fleece of sheep, there are many other animals from which fibers with unique characteristics are obtained, such as goats, camelids and some rabbits . Yes, rabbits!

Sheep are undoubtedly the primary source of wool, with breeds such as the Merino, known for its exceptional softness, and the Lincoln, which produces long, sturdy fibres. Goats produce fine wools such as cashmere, obtained from the soft undercoat of Cashmere goats, and mohair , derived from Angora goats. Camelids, such as alpacas, llamas and vicuñas, provide light, warm and silky fibres , particularly prized for luxury garments. The camel, on the other hand, provides a warm and soft wool, often used in natural shades. Another exclusive fibre is angora, obtained from Angora rabbits, characterised by a silky and light texture.

But how is all this wool processed?

• Wool processing begins with shearing , an operation that generally takes place once a year, in spring, when the fleece is at its maximum development.
• After shearing, the raw wool is subjected to a series of processes to make it suitable for spinning and weaving. The first stage is washing , which is necessary to remove impurities such as soil, natural fat (lanolin) and plant residues.
• Once cleaned, the wool is carded , a process that untangles and aligns the fibers, transforming them into a uniform mass ready for spinning. Depending on the final use, it can be further combed to obtain smoother and more homogeneous yarns.

Wool types vary depending on the breed of the animal and the treatment of the fibers .

Virgin wool, for example, comes from sheep that have been shorn for the first time and is particularly soft. Superfine wool, such as Merino, is ideal for next-to-skin clothing, while coarse wool, such as that of Lincoln sheep, is used for rugs and hard-wearing fabrics. Cashmere and alpaca are prized for their lightness and warmth, while mohair is known for its sheen. Other varieties include Shetland wool, obtained from sheep on the Shetland Islands, and Gotland wool, known for its natural greyish color.

The quality of wool also varies based on the species of animal from which it comes and, for each individual animal, the area of ​​the body from which it is taken (for example, belly, shoulder, back or legs). Generally speaking, wool obtained from shoulders and back is characterized by fibers that are generally longer, shinier and more resistant to wear.

Even the diet, and therefore the characteristics of the pastures, influences the development of more or less dense and soft coats: Moroccan rugs made with Siroua wool, for example, are so soft because the sheep from that mountain range have a diet based exclusively on local grasses, which gives their fur extreme softness and shine.

Each type of wool offers unique qualities, making it a versatile raw material for clothing, rugs, blankets and other applications. Its processing is an ancient art that combines traditional techniques and modern innovations, maintaining its charm and utility intact throughout the centuries.

Wool carpet manufacturing and types

After this very long introduction, let's explore the world of wool for rugs more closely.

From wool to rug

The processing of wool for carpet weaving is a complex process that combines tradition and craftsmanship. After shearing the sheep, the raw wool is washed to remove impurities and lanolin, a natural fat used in cosmetics. The next step is carding, which untangles and aligns the fibers, transforming them into a uniform mass. The wool is then spun into threads of different thicknesses and dyed with natural or chemical colors, ready for weaving.

In the world of rugs, there are two main manufacturing techniques: weaving and knotting.

Woven rugs are made by intertwining warp and weft threads on a loom , creating flat surfaces like kilims . These rugs are lightweight, pileless, and often decorated with geometric patterns.

In contrast, hand-knotted rugs involve creating individual knots around the warp threads . Each knot forms the pile of the rug, which is then shaved to obtain a uniform surface. This technique requires much more time and skill: the result is soft, durable and three-dimensional rugs. Knotting is an artisanal process whose mastery is passed down from generation to generation.

Tufting is a modern technique used to produce rugs, including wool rugs, that combines craftsmanship with speed. Unlike hand-knotted rugs, where each knot is created by hand, tufting involves attaching wool threads to a pre-existing fabric base using a special tool called a tufting gun or tufting needle . This tool pushes the wool threads through the backing, creating small loops. These loops can be left as they are to create a curly pile rug, or cut away to create a softer pile that is more similar to traditional rugs After the design is complete, the back of the carpet is secured with a layer of latex or glue to keep the threads firmly in place.

While woven rugs offer simplicity and lightness, knotted rugs express luxury and durability, making them true masterpieces of craftsmanship. Both enhance wool, highlighting its quality and versatility.

A note on Moroccan rugs: weaving, as well as knotting, in our case is exclusively done by hand . The looms are not mechanical looms, but artisanal and require handwork.

 

But what are warp and weft? Warp and weft are the fundamental elements in the structure of a wool rug, as they form the basis of the fabric. The warp is the set of threads stretched vertically on the loom . These threads form the skeleton of the rug and represent the support on which the design and the pile are built. The weft, on the other hand, is the set of threads that are woven horizontally between the warp threads . These threads pass alternately above and below the warp, fixing it and giving stability and compactness to the structure. In woven rugs, the weft is what creates the decorative pattern together with the warp, while in knotted rugs, the weft alternates with the knots, securing them firmly. These two elements work in synergy to give the rug strength and durability. In the case of a hand-knotted rug, the warp and weft support the knots that form the pile, contributing to its softness and strength. Understanding the role of the warp and weft is essential to appreciating the quality and complexity of hand-woven wool rugs.

Depending on the manufacturing technique, the result changes, and we have different types of wool rugs mainly divided into short, medium or long pile rugs and flat woven rugs.

The short-haired wool rugs

It is not easy to make a clear distinction between short-pile wool rugs and long-pile wool rugs: you would need to measure the height of each rug and establish some reference measurements in advance. We could give you a general indication of the centimeter: below 1 cm we can define a rug as a short-pile rug, while if we go above and beyond 2 cm we can talk about a long-pile rug .

But don't take it too literally, okay?

In the first case, among the short pile rugs we could find the Taznakht rugs (always short) or the Boujaad rugs, which often are. Among the short pile rugs we can also find vintage rugs , like the ones you find in our shop.

The long-haired wool rug

For those who love thick wool rugs (often called shaggy rugs from the English term), long-pile wool rugs - over a centimetre - are definitely the preferred choice.

Soft and welcoming, among these we could indicate the soft Beni Ourain , the Beni Mrirt or the Azilal rugs . We have put them all in the same category because we do not consider this distinction to be so decisive: see all our long-haired rugs.

The pile-free wool rug

Flat-woven, pile-free rugs made from wool or a wool and cotton blend , or, in the case of Boucherouite , from recycled fabrics of all kinds, are an element of great charm.

In Morocco, these rugs are known as Hanbel , although they are often mistakenly called "Moroccan Kilim" . The term Kilim comes from the Turkish language, but its Persian variant, gelim (گلیم), is just as widespread, and the tradition of these rugs extends far beyond the borders of Turkey, reaching the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and even China, tracing a history rich in cultural exchanges and different influences. These rugs are made with a flat weaving technique without knots, which gives them a solid and resistant structure. Despite their apparent simplicity, Kilims are decorated with geometric patterns and bright colors, often inspired by local traditions and nature. Each design tells stories of ancient tribes, beliefs and symbolism related to protection and prosperity.

Natural materials such as wool and cotton allow for vivid and long-lasting dyes, with shades that remain intact over time. In addition to being rugs, Kilims are also used as tapestries, blankets or curtains , and are appreciated for their lightness, which makes them perfect for modern spaces. These rugs represent a fusion between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, adding a touch of history and beauty to any environment.

See all our Hanbel rugs .

Dye and colors

The earliest evidence of wool dyeing dates back to Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia , and the art of dyeing has been passed down through the ages through various civilizations, including the peoples of the Middle East, where wool was dyed using natural methods. Today, this tradition is still alive in artisanal practices, where wool rugs are made and dyed using techniques that respect ancient methods.

After shearing, the wool was treated to remove grease by washing it with boiling water, often with the addition of detergents (soaps and herbs) to facilitate the cleaning process. Once degreased, the wool was carded to separate the fibres, then spun and wound into skeins ready for dyeing. This treatment of the wool was followed by a further, more or less elaborate, dyeing step, a process that has always played a crucial role in enhancing the value of the finished carpet. The wool skeins were dyed by expert dyers who used natural dyes from plant, animal or mineral sources, recipes that were lost in ancient traditions and were jealously guarded.

Despite the widespread availability of synthetic dyes, in many of the regions that were the cradles of rug production such as Morocco, traditional dyeing methods, based on natural ingredients, are still practiced today . These processes, which combine knowledge and tradition, were a fundamental element in giving rugs a significant added value, making each piece not only a handcrafted product, but also a unique work, steeped in history and culture.

Dyeing plants have been instrumental in the creation of a vast array of colors , each with its own symbolism and application.

• RED
  Red is one of the most used colors in oriental rugs: it was extracted from the cochineal , an insect that produces a deep red pigment, or from madder (a plant whose roots were - and still are - dried and ground), or from some metals .
• BLUE
  Another fundamental color in the production of wool rugs was blue, which was obtained from the woad (indigo) plant . This plant was known since ancient times for its ability to produce a deep and resistant blue, particularly appreciated for its durability over time. Indigo blue has been used for centuries, so much so that it has become one of the most sought-after colors in wool rugs from Persia and Asia Minor.
• YELLOW
  Yellow was obtained from plants such as mignonette and turmeric . These natural pigments gave a warm and bright shade, which, combined with red and blue, contributed to the creation of beautiful multi-colored wool rugs; the combination of colors obtained from plants such as mignonette and turmeric was also used to obtain pale yellow and orange variations.
• BEIGE AND WHITE
  For plain wool rugs in more neutral tones, such as beige and white, natural dyes came from plants such as walnut or oak bark , which are rich in natural tannins. These materials were used to obtain shades of beige, light brown or light grey , colours that are particularly popular today for rugs with an elegant and sober look, ideal for minimalist environments (when made naturally - not dyed with commercially available pigments - grey is still obtained by carding together naturally ivory wool and naturally brown wool). Grey is in fact a very sought-after colour in contemporary wool rugs: the grey or neutral wool rug, in fact, meets the aesthetic needs of more modern spaces , but also finds a harmonious place in more classic environments.

The artisanal techniques related to wool dyeing have been passed down through the centuries and are still used today in many regions of the world, including Morocco as we know. In conclusion, natural wool dyeing is a practice that combines tradition, art and sustainability. The ability to obtain rich and vibrant colors from dyeing plants has made wool rugs one of the most valuable and durable decorative items. Whether they are plain wool rugs in warm shades of beige and white, or multi-colored wool rugs with intricate patterns , natural dyeing has helped create timeless masterpieces, which we hope you will appreciate as much as we do.

[Ordinary] care and maintenance

Wool naturally repels dirt thanks to lanolin , a protective wax that coats the fibers. This is why all wool fabrics are difficult to get dirty (even pure wool sweaters for example).
Wool rugs are also very durable; however, to maintain their beauty and softness intact over time, they require a little attention.

Here are our tips for daily care and routine maintenance:

• Vacuuming your rug frequently : Vacuuming prevents the accumulation of dust and dirt that can damage the fibers over time; we recommend doing it consistently (once or twice a week can be a guideline) and using a vacuum cleaner with a roller brush for short-pile rugs and a flat nozzle for long-pile rugs, passing it gently over the fringes from the inside out.
• How to remove stains from a wool rug : if the carpet gets stained, it is important to immediately dab the affected area with a dry cloth or absorbent paper, avoiding rubbing so as not to push the stain deeper; for the removal of more stubborn stains, however, you can use specific detergents for wool or a solution of warm water and white vinegar in small quantities.
• Daily life tips and periodic rotation : to avoid accidental movements, it is useful to use non-slip underlays. Rugs also undergo greater wear in high-traffic areas, so rotating them every 5-6 months helps to evenly distribute discoloration and/or wear (keep in mind, however, that wool has its own natural elasticity and quickly returns to its original shape).
• Shedding : Good quality rugs do not shed, but they may shed a little (this is a phenomenon that affects all wool rugs). This is normal, and if there are any longer hairs, simply cut off the excess fabric.
• Wool Rugs and Moths : Wool can be a target for moths or other insects, for which you can occasionally use specific natural repellents; periodically checking the carpet for signs of infestation can be a form of prevention.

By paying these simple attentions your wool carpet will remain soft, clean and shiny for many years. Regular care is undoubtedly the secret to preserving its aesthetic and functional value.

A trick to take care of all wool rugs? To eliminate bad smells you can sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda, leave it to act for two hours and then vacuum.

 

Cleaning and washing [extraordinary]

Extraordinary cleaning of wool rugs is essential to maintain their splendor and ensure that they last a long time. In addition to ordinary maintenance, it is important to know how to tackle a deeper cleaning and occasional washing, both to eliminate accumulated dirt and to remove stubborn stains.

How to clean wool rugs at home

For an effective extraordinary cleaning, it is essential to adopt methods that respect the natural fibers of wool. After having carefully vacuumed the carpet, for a deeper cleaning you can use a specific wool detergent diluted in warm water . For stains you can use a sponge or soft cloth and gently dab the surface, avoiding wetting the carpet completely so as not to damage the fibers.

How to wash wool rugs at home

Washing a wool rug at home is possible, but requires a lot of care: if the rug is small, it can be immersed in a tub filled with warm water and a delicate detergent , lightly rubbing the dirtiest areas. After washing, rinse thoroughly to eliminate any soap residue and let it air dry, preferably in a well-ventilated place but away from direct sunlight. There are also rug washing appliances with which you can wash wool rugs at home without excessive effort (and they are quite affordable, prices start at 90 euros).

How to wash a large wool rug

A professional laundry, on the other hand, will know better how to wash a large wool rug , because in this case, managing it at home is more complex (also consider the weight of a completely wet wool rug).

How to wash a shag wool rug

Long-pile wool rugs require the same treatment: cleaning should focus on light vacuuming to avoid pulling the fibers . For any stains, you can dab with a solution of warm water and specific wool soap, taking special care not to soak the long pile too much. Once washed, try to remove excess water gently and let it dry in a horizontal position to maintain its original shape.

How to Wash a Wool Rug in the Washing Machine

Although machine washing is not always recommended for wool rugs, some smaller, more durable models can be treated with a delicate or wool-specific program. Before washing a wool rug in the washing machine, it is a good idea to first check the manufacturer's label or ask the store where you purchased it. As for the wash cycle, it is best to use a low-temperature cycle, with a reduced spin speed and a detergent suitable for wool. Once the wash is finished, it should NOT be put in the dryer and should be dried flat / horizontally.

Knowing how to clean wool rugs and adopting the right extraordinary washing methods ensures that the rug remains soft and shiny over time. Whether it is a manual cleaning or a more thorough washing, treating wool with care is the secret to preserving its quality.

Read all the other tips on the page dedicated to the care of our rugs .

 

Why choose a wool rug

After having gone into the theoretical part, let's get to the point. Why choose a wool carpet instead of a carpet made of other materials? Let's try to outline the pros and cons of this furnishing choice that represents a real lifestyle.

Pro

• Environmental Sustainability: Wool is 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable. If disposed of properly, it decomposes in the soil in a few years, returning nutrients such as nitrogen and sulfur, reducing environmental impact.
• Low impact on marine resources: Unlike synthetic fibers (polyester, acrylic or nylon, derived from petroleum or plastic), wool rugs do not release microplastics and require fewer washings thanks to their natural resistance to odors, stains and creases.
• Durability and resistance: wool is a robust and durable material , capable of maintaining its shape and characteristics over time, even in high-traffic environments.
• Thermal and acoustic insulation: thanks to its natural properties, a wool carpet improves the thermal and acoustic insulation of rooms , increasing home comfort.
• Aesthetics and comfort: soft to the touch and visually refined, wool adds elegance and warmth to living spaces .
• Hypoallergenicity: wool rugs are naturally hypoallergenic , therefore only in rare cases can they cause discomfort to people with allergies ( some information for further information ).
• Naturally purified air: Yes, wool rugs appear to help purify the air in your home by quickly absorbing common pollutants (formaldehyde, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs). Not only does wool neutralize these contaminants more quickly and completely than synthetic carpet fibers, it also doesn't re-emit them even when heated. ( Source )

Against

• Initial Cost: Wool rugs tend to be more expensive than synthetic ones , although the cost is offset by their durability and unparalleled beauty ( how much do Moroccan rugs really cost? We've covered this here ).
• Specific maintenance: although they are resistant, wool rugs require careful care , such as protection against moths and delicate washing to preserve their fibres (we talked about this a little above).

Choosing a wool rug means choosing a sustainable and high-quality material, perfect for those looking for a responsible option without sacrificing aesthetics and functionality. The long-term advantages far outweigh the few disadvantages, making this choice a conscious investment for the home and the planet.

 

Where to put a wool rug in the house

A wool rug is a versatile furnishing accessory with an extreme personality that can enrich any environment, adapting perfectly even to spaces furnished in a contemporary style.

• Wool rugs for the living room are the most popular : placed under the sofa and the coffee table they create a defined and welcoming relaxation area, adding warmth and texture to the floor.
• In a dining room , a large rug under the table enhances the convivial area , also ensuring acoustic comfort thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of wool.
• In the bedroom, a nice soft, long-haired rug at the foot of the bed or at the sides is ideal for a comfortable awakening and a feeling of luxury (especially when you have cold floors, wool rugs for the bedroom are a soft cuddle).
• In spaces such as entrances or corridors, flat-weave wool rugs or rugs with minimalist geometric designs , such as Moroccan Beni Ourain, combine aesthetics and functionality, resisting daily wear and tear.
• Even in open spaces, wool rugs are perfect for visually dividing spaces , creating a contrast between modern materials and the timeless elegance of wool. A wool rug in the living room, placed for example in a reading corner or under an accent chair, can transform an apparently neutral space into a very “cozy” corner.
• And in the bathroom? It might be an unusual choice but a small wool rug in the bathroom is not to be excluded , considering the comfortable sensation due to the softness of the product and the resistance to humidity of the wool.

The key to contemporary interior design is choosing wool rugs with colors, patterns or textures that dialogue harmoniously with the surrounding furniture, enhancing each room with taste and balance. The size of the rug can greatly influence the final result: a giant wool rug, for example, could be a diversion capable of giving character to a dull and simply furnished living room .

Sometimes the available sizes do not match the furnishing needs: on our shop we offer the possibility of making custom wool rugs to satisfy any design need.

 

Focus on: Wool rug and underfloor heating. Yes or no?

A short appendix on a much debated topic: can wool carpet be used with underfloor heating? Installing underfloor heating is an increasingly popular choice for the thermal comfort and energy efficiency it offers. Many people wonder, however, whether it is possible to use rugs without compromising the uniform distribution of heat.

The answer is yes, as long as you make careful choices, especially regarding the material and thickness of the rug.

Wool is one of the best materials for underfloor heating. This natural material is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures without damage, and its excellent thermal conductivity allows heat to pass through it easily .

Short-pile wool rugs are particularly suitable, as they reduce thermal resistance, facilitating the diffusion of heat in the room. The thickness of the rug is, in fact, a crucial factor in ensuring the effectiveness of underfloor heating.

Thin rugs allow heat to reach the room quickly, while thicker rugs can hinder heat distribution. Similarly, it is better to opt for low pile or flat weave rugs, since high pile rugs may require more effort from the heating system to transmit the heat.

On the other hand, synthetic rugs, while practical, are not always ideal for radiant heated floors: some synthetic materials conduct heat poorly, reducing the efficiency of the system. In addition, coatings such as latex or rubbery materials on the back of some rugs can be damaged by heat or even compromise the surface of the floor.

It is therefore advisable to choose rugs with natural bases or specifically for heated floors .

The size of the rug also affects its compatibility with underfloor heating. A rug that is too large may over-cover the surface, reducing the effectiveness of the system. Choosing medium or small sized rugs allows heat to spread freely from uncovered areas, while maintaining the elegance and comfort of the space.

10 curiosities about wool

And now, some lighter content to close this very long overview of wool for furnishing rugs. Let's see how many of these anecdotes you know:

1. The most valuable wool in the world is vicuña wool , obtained from the coat of the vicuña, an Andean camelid, and is appreciated for its exceptional fineness, lightness and rarity.
2. The warmest wool is that of yak or alpaca , thanks to its extraordinary insulating capacity that retains heat even in the most extreme conditions.
3. There are over 1000 breeds of sheep in the world , selected over the millennia for their specific characteristics related to wool, meat, milk and adaptability to different climates and environments.
4. Wool is naturally flame retardant : it has a very high ignition point (around 600°C) and does not burn easily, making it one of the safest fibres to use in domestic environments.
5. Wool has always had considerable value: it was even used as currency in ancient Rome and the Middle Ages . It was considered so valuable that it was used as a form of payment or exchanged for other goods.
6. In Iceland, the wool of the Lopi sheep is used as an architectural insulator : compressed and inserted between wooden walls or roof beams to insulate houses from low temperatures (it was often combined with other natural materials such as moss, peat or hay for greater effectiveness).
7. Italy is among the most important world producers of wool yarns and fabrics . The major producing countries are Australia, China and New Zealand; followed, at a great distance, by Iran, Great Britain and Argentina.
8. Wool is also used to protect against the heat . Thanks to its insulating and breathable properties, wool regulates body temperature, keeping you cool in hot and dry climates, which is why it is used in clothing even in deserts and in summer garments.
9. A high quality carpet can have up to a million knots per square meter .
10. The "flying rugs" of fairy tales, such as those told in One Thousand and One Nights , were inspired by oriental wool rugs that were considered magical for their intricate design and value.

Our journey into the world of wool for rugs ends here. We hope to have satisfied all possible curiosities and to have conveyed all our love for this natural material with infinite peculiarities.

Come and discover and touch our Moroccan wool rugs in our showroom in Milan or on our shop ! We are waiting for you.