Kilims & Flatweaves

At ABC Carpet & Home we stock a large range of Kilims and Flatweave rugs, including hand woven dhurries and vintage kilims in striking patterns, rich tones, and versatile sizes. 

What is a Kilim Rug?

A Kilim is a flatwoven rug traditionally made across Turkey, Persia, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. Kilims are created using the slit-weave technique, where colored weft threads are tightly interwoven with warp threads to form sharp, geometric patterns without any pile. Traditionally woven from wool, Kilims are known for their bold motifs, symbolic meanings, and vibrant colors.

What is a Flatweave Rug?

Flatweave rugs are a broader category of rugs woven without pile, resulting in a thinner, more flexible textile. While Kilims are a type of flatweave, this category also includes techniques like Soumak, Cicim, and Zili. Flatweaves often feature intricate patterns created by interlocking warp and weft threads, and they offer lightweight durability ideal for layering, high-traffic spaces, and creative home decor applications like wall hangings or upholstery.

What is the Difference Between a Kilim and a Flatweave?

While all Kilims are flatweaves, not all flatweaves are Kilims. Kilims specifically use the slit-weave method, creating distinctive sharp-edged designs and geometric motifs. Other flatweaves, like Soumaks, use different techniques such as wrapped wefts or supplementary weft brocading, often resulting in different textures and visual effects. Kilims also carry strong cultural significance, especially in Turkish, Persian, and Caucasian weaving traditions, and are often more collectible.

Choosing between a Flatweave and a Kilim

While similar, choosing between a flatweave and traditional Kilim has a few considerations. 

Flatweaves are more durable, are less collectable and often less expensive. Therefore they may be better for high traffic areas such as hallways. These spaces may also be more minimalist in decor, which matches the average flatweave better. 

Kilims can often be more fragile and suited to decorative spaces, or even hung on walls as art pieces. 

How to Clean a Kilim & Flatweave Rug

To keep your Kilim or flatweave rug beautiful for years:

• Vacuum gently using suction only (no beater bar) to prevent damage.

• Rotate regularly to ensure even wear.

• Spot clean immediately with a pH-neutral soap and cold water.

• Avoid prolonged sunlight exposure to protect natural dyes.

• Professional cleaning every few years is recommended for deeper care.

• For storage, roll (do not fold) rugs around an archival tube and use natural moth deterrents like cedar.

We recommend considering professional rug cleaning every few years to preserve natural fibers and dyes.

Made to Order Rug Pads

We always recommend getting a custom rug pad to ensure your flatweave or Kilim rug stays in place while adding cushioning, additional sound dampening and protecting your floors from everyday wear. 

Shop Kilims & Flatweaves in New York City & Brooklyn

abc carpet & home has been a destination for one-of-a-kind antique rugs as well as custom carpets in New York City for decades. Visit our New York City and Brooklyn Kilim & Flatweave showrooms to experience the artistry, texture, and quality of our collections in person.