Kilim, margoum or knotted? A short guide to Tunisian weaves

Tunisia has three great carpet traditions, and each feels completely different underfoot.

Kilim

A flat weave with no pile. Coloured weft threads are woven tightly over the warp to draw geometric patterns. Kilims are light, reversible and the most affordable way to bring handmade colour into a room. Mahdia and Oudref are famous for them.

Margoum

Only Tunisia makes margoum. The weaver starts with a kilim base and then embroiders knotted motifs in relief, so the pattern stands out from the surface. Look closely and you can feel the raised diamonds and symbols.

Kairouan knotted

The "zarbia" of Kairouan is knotted point by point with the Ghiordes knot, then trimmed to an even pile. Densities run from 40,000 to 160,000 knots per square metre. It is the most labour-intensive technique and the most durable.

Berber wool

Deep-pile rugs in undyed wool with simple charcoal symbols, made for warmth in the mountains. Wonderfully soft and very forgiving in busy homes.