Authentic hand-knotted oriental rugs are made entirely by hand, with each knot tied individually — a process that can take months or even years for a single piece. Key indicators include slight irregularities in the pattern, fringe that is part of the rug's foundation rather than sewn on, and a pile that shows the design clearly on the back. When in doubt, bring it to an expert. Doug Nassif has spent decades authenticating and appraising rugs and is happy to help.

Most oriental rugs benefit from professional washing every three to five years, depending on foot traffic and household conditions. Regular vacuuming extends the life of the rug between washings, but nothing replaces a thorough professional cleaning to remove embedded dirt and restore the rug's natural luster.

A professional appraisal establishes the documented value of your rug for insurance, estate, resale, or personal knowledge purposes. You may need one when updating your homeowner's insurance, settling an estate, considering a sale, or after damage or loss. Doug Nassif is an experienced appraiser serving clients throughout Iowa and the Midwest.

Persian rugs originate from Iran and are known for their intricate floral and curvilinear designs, typically featuring very high knot counts and fine detail. Turkish rugs tend to feature bolder geometric patterns and slightly coarser, more durable construction. Tribal rugs are made by nomadic and semi-nomadic weavers and are prized for their graphic patterns, expressive color, and handmade character. Each tradition is distinct and beautiful — and all three are well represented in our collection.

A common mistake is choosing a rug that's too small. In a living room, the front legs of all major furniture pieces should sit on the rug, or all four legs of each piece if the rug is large enough. In a dining room, the rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond the edges of the table on all sides so chairs remain on the rug when pulled out. In a bedroom, a rug should extend 18 to 24 inches beyond the sides and foot of the bed. When in doubt, use painter's tape to mark potential rug dimensions on the floor before purchasing.

Yes. We ship anywhere in the United States. Please note that listed prices do not include shipping — contact us for a shipping quote to your location.

Yes. We offer professional rug repair for fringe wear, unraveling edges, moth damage, reweaving, and more. Every repair is handled with the care and expertise these pieces deserve. Contact us to discuss your repair needs.

Yes. Our professional rug washing service is designed specifically for hand-knotted rugs, honoring the delicate fibers, dyes, and construction that make these pieces special. Contact us to schedule your rug washing.