Everything we get asked, in one place. Buying a hand-knotted heirloom rug is a long-form decision — provenance, materials, sizing, care, investment. If you don't see your question, call or text us at +1 857 313 9458 or email Raihanrugs@gmail.com.
Construction & Craftsmanship
Are Raihan rugs hand-knotted?
Yes. Every rug in our collection is hand-knotted on a vertical loom by master weavers — typically in northern Afghanistan (Aqcha, Mazar-i-Sharif, Andkhoy, Balkh, Kunduz) or Turkey. We do not sell tufted, machine-made, or hand-loomed (flat-woven non-knotted) rugs. Each piece's knot density (KPSI) and foundation are documented in the product listing. Hand-knotted is the only construction technique that holds investment value over decades and develops the patina of a true heirloom.
What does "one of one" mean?
One of one means the rug is the only piece of its exact design, size, palette, and provenance in our inventory. Because every hand-knotted rug is woven by hand from individually-dyed yarn, no two pieces are ever identical. When you buy a one-of-one rug from us, that exact rug will not exist anywhere else. We do not commission duplicates and we do not stock multiples of the same design.
What is KPSI and why does it matter?
KPSI (Knots Per Square Inch) is the standard measure of weave density for hand-knotted rugs. Our pieces range from approximately 100 KPSI (tribal Khal-Mohammadi, robust and characterful) up to 180+ KPSI (finer Oushak and Mamluk pieces with intricate detail). Higher KPSI generally means finer pattern resolution and longer weaving time, though tribal pieces in the 80–120 KPSI range have their own collectible market and aesthetic value. Every product page lists the exact KPSI of that specific rug.
What wool do you use?
The majority of our wool comes from northern Afghan highland sheep — locally known as "Ghazni wool," prized for its long staple length, high lanolin content, and natural luster. Ghazni wool produces yarn that is durable, lustrous, and ages beautifully over decades. For specific pieces we also work with hand-spun Turkish Anatolian wool and, in rare cases, wool-on-silk constructions with hand-spun mulberry silk pile on a cotton foundation.
Are your dyes natural?
Where we use natural dyes, we disclose it. Many of our rugs use traditional vegetable dyes — madder root for red, indigo for blue, walnut hulls for brown, pomegranate rind for yellow, larkspur for green. Some pieces use color-fast modern dyes for specific palettes that natural dyes cannot achieve (certain corals, deeper blacks, specific neutrals). Every product page lists the dye type used so you can choose with full transparency. Natural dyes develop characteristic "abrash" — soft color variation across the field — which is a sign of authenticity, not a flaw.
How long does it take to weave one rug?
A 9'×12' hand-knotted wool rug at 120 KPSI takes a master weaver between five and nine months to complete, working approximately eight hours per day. Finer pieces (160+ KPSI) and oversized rugs can take twelve to eighteen months. Smaller runners and 5'×8' pieces typically run two to four months. This is one of the reasons hand-knotted rugs cost what they do — and why they hold value the way they do.
Inventory & Availability
What does "In Stock" mean?
When a rug is marked "In Stock," that specific piece is currently available and ready to ship from our Boston atelier. Because every rug is one-of-one, once you purchase it, the same rug will not be re-listed.
What does "Sold Out" mean?
Sold Out indicates the rug has found its home and is no longer available. Because every piece is singular, we cannot restock the same rug. We continuously curate new acquisitions, so similar pieces in the same tradition often appear. Subscribe to First Look below or follow us on Instagram for new-arrival notifications.
How often do you add new inventory?
We curate continuously. New pieces typically arrive in our Boston atelier every two to four weeks. Each arrival is photographed, condition-reviewed, and listed within 7–10 days. Trade members and First Look subscribers see new pieces 48–72 hours before public listing.
Can I commission a similar rug if one is sold out?
We cannot reproduce a sold piece — every hand-knotted rug is one-of-one by nature. However, we work directly with the artisan cooperatives that produced your favorite design and can help source a rug in similar tradition, palette, or dimensions. Contact us with the sold piece's product page and your specifications and we'll send curated alternatives within 48 hours.
Do you hold rugs while I decide?
Given the singular nature of each piece, we operate on a first-purchase basis. However, for serious inquiries we provide additional imagery, detailed condition reports, video walkthroughs, and provenance documentation. For Boston-area buyers, we also offer in-atelier viewing by appointment so you can decide in person before committing.
Sizing & Room Fit
What sizes do you carry?
We carry runners (typically 2.5'×8' to 3'×14'), 5'×8', 8'×10', 9'×12', and oversized pieces up to 12'×18' and larger. Because every rug is hand-knotted and one-of-one, sizes vary slightly piece by piece — exact dimensions are listed on each product page. For specific size requirements outside our current inventory, contact us for a private inventory consultation.
What size rug do I need for a living room?
The standard luxury rule: the rug should extend at least 6 inches under the front legs of all major seating pieces, or fully under all furniture if the room allows. For an 8' sofa with two flanking chairs, an 8'×10' is the entry size; a 9'×12' is more generous and frames the seating group like an architectural anchor. For open-plan rooms, consider 10'×14' or 12'×15'.
What size rug do I need for a dining room?
Measure the dining table and add 24 inches on every side so chairs remain on the rug when pulled out. For a standard 6-person rectangular table (42"×72"), a 9'×12' is the correct fit. For an 8-person table, you'll likely need a 10'×14'. Round tables of 60" diameter pair well with a 9'×9' or 10'×10' square rug.
What size rug do I need for a bedroom?
The rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond the bed on three sides (head end can sit on hardwood). For a king bed: 9'×12' is the gold standard. For a queen: 8'×10' works beautifully. For smaller bedrooms or for layering under a bed, two runners flanking the bed (3'×8' each) is a designer-favorite alternative.
What size rug do I need for a hallway?
A runner should leave 18 inches of bare floor visible on each end and roughly 4 inches on each side. Measure the hallway, subtract 36 inches from the length, and that's your runner length. Our runners range from 2.5'×8' to 3'×14'+ to fit most architectural hallways. For especially long halls, we can also pair two complementary runners.
Pricing & Investment Value
Why are hand-knotted rugs expensive?
A 9'×12' hand-knotted wool rug represents 800–1,400 hours of skilled artisan labor. Materials (Ghazni wool, natural dyes, cotton or silk foundation) are sourced and prepared by hand, often hand-spun. Add direct-from-artisan sourcing, written provenance, Boston-atelier review, and white-glove insured U.S. shipping. The price reflects what it takes to make one piece this way — and the value compounds as the rug ages.
Do hand-knotted rugs hold their value?
Yes, when chosen well. Investment-grade hand-knotted rugs — verified provenance, master-weaver pieces, antique or rare contemporary — historically appreciate or hold value over decades. Machine-made rugs and tufted reproductions depreciate immediately like fast furniture. The defining factors for value retention are: hand-knotted construction, traceable provenance, materials (wool grade + natural dye), condition, and design rarity.
What's the price range at Raihan Rugs?
Our current inventory ranges from approximately $1,100 (smaller runners and 5'×8' tribal pieces) to $8,000+ (oversized fine Oushak and Mamluk pieces, select antique Persians). Most living-room sizes (8'×10' to 9'×12') fall in the $2,800–$5,500 range. Trade pricing applies to verified interior designers — see the Trade Program for details.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Shopify's installment financing (Shop Pay) is available at checkout on most pieces, splitting payments into 4–12 monthly installments. For larger commissions ($5,000+), contact us directly about custom payment terms — we work with collectors and designers on a case-by-case basis.
Shipping & White-Glove Delivery
Do you ship outside the United States?
No. Raihan Rugs ships exclusively within the United States. We offer free white-glove delivery to all 50 states with insured transit and signature receipt. We do not ship internationally because our concierge service depends on direct U.S. logistics partners and our 14-day at-home approval period requires domestic returns.
How much does shipping cost?
Free. Every U.S. delivery is included — fully insured white-glove shipping, signature receipt, and scheduled delivery appointment. No tiers, no minimums, no surprise fees at checkout.
How long does delivery take?
Most U.S. orders ship within 1–3 business days of order confirmation. White-glove delivery transit time is typically 7–21 days depending on your location. Boston-area deliveries are often within 1 week. You'll receive tracking and a delivery appointment confirmation by phone.
What is "white-glove delivery"?
White-glove means a two-person team carries the rug inside your home, unrolls it where you direct, removes all packaging, and leaves your space as they found it. No signing at the curb. No leaving a 9'×12' on your doorstep. Schedule windows are typically two-hour blocks, and the carrier calls 24 hours in advance to confirm.
Is the rug insured during shipping?
Yes. Every shipment is fully insured at replacement value through our carrier's high-value goods insurance. In the rare event of transit damage, document the damage on the delivery receipt, photograph it, and contact us within 48 hours — we handle the claim end-to-end.
Returns & 14-Day Approval
What is your return policy?
We offer a 14-day at-home approval period. If a rug doesn't suit your space, you may return it within 14 days of delivery for a full refund, less return shipping. The rug must be in original condition. Trade and designer purchases follow the same 14-day terms unless otherwise specified.
How does the 14-day approval work?
Receive the rug, live with it for up to 14 days in your actual space — see it under your natural light, against your furniture, with your floor. If it's not right, email us at Raihanrugs@gmail.com within 14 days of delivery, and we'll arrange a return pickup. Refund (less return shipping cost) is issued within 5 business days of the rug arriving back at the atelier.
Who pays for return shipping?
Return shipping is at the buyer's expense — typically $150–$400 depending on size and destination — because outbound was free white-glove. We coordinate the return carrier on your behalf to ensure proper insured handling.
Are sale or final-sale items returnable?
Pieces marked "Final Sale" or "Estate" (typically deeply-discounted antiques) are not returnable. All other inventory is covered by the 14-day approval policy. The product page explicitly states "Final Sale" if it applies.
Care & Maintenance
How do I care for a hand-knotted rug?
Vacuum gently in the direction of the pile every 1–2 weeks (no rotating brush). Rotate the rug 180° every 6 months for even wear. Spot-clean spills immediately with cold water and a clean white cloth — never rub. Schedule a professional hand-washing every 5–7 years. Avoid direct sunlight and place a rug pad underneath for longevity. With proper care, a hand-knotted wool rug lasts 80+ years.
Can I use a rotating-brush vacuum?
No. Rotating beater bars and stiff brushes pull at the knots and accelerate wear. Use a suction-only vacuum (most canister vacuums have this setting, or a hard-floor attachment works). Vacuum in the direction of the pile, not against it.
Should I use a rug pad?
Yes, always. A felt-and-rubber rug pad (we recommend 1/4" felt with natural rubber backing) protects the rug from floor friction, extends its life, prevents slipping, and adds a layer of cushioning. Pads should be cut 1 inch shorter than the rug on every side so they're invisible from above.
What if my rug gets stained?
Blot — never rub. Use cold water and a clean white cotton cloth. For protein stains (wine, blood, coffee), club soda works. For oil-based stains, dry-cleaning fluid sparingly. Never apply heat. If the stain doesn't lift, stop and contact us — we can recommend a professional textile conservator. Wool's natural lanolin makes most stains release easily if treated within an hour.
How often should the rug be professionally cleaned?
Every 5–7 years for normal residential use, or every 3–4 years in high-traffic areas. Always use a rug specialist that hand-washes (not a carpet steam-cleaner). We can recommend trusted hand-wash specialists in the Boston, NYC, LA, Chicago, and Miami markets — contact us.
Can I put a hand-knotted rug under a dining table where there will be spills?
Yes — most of our wool pieces are specifically suited to dining rooms because wool's lanolin makes it naturally stain-resistant. Vacuum weekly, blot spills immediately, and use a rug pad. Wool dining rugs commonly outlast the dining table itself.
Trade Program for Designers
Do you offer a trade program for interior designers?
Yes. Our trade program is available to verified interior designers, architects, and design firms (including AD-100 members). Benefits include direct artisan provenance documentation, exclusive trade pricing, net-30 payment terms, white-glove U.S. delivery, and dedicated concierge support. Apply through our Trade page.
What is the trade discount?
Trade discounts are tiered based on volume and verified credentials. Specific pricing is shared upon application approval, typically reviewed within one business day. We honor pricing parity with our published rates for retail clients — trade pricing is genuine wholesale, not retail discount masquerading as trade.
Do you ship memo samples?
Yes. For verified trade members, we ship complimentary swatches of dyed yarn from in-stock pieces. For full-rug memo (loaning a rug to a client's space for evaluation), we work on a case-by-case basis with a 7-day memo window, signed memo agreement, and return shipping covered by the designer.
Can I have a piece reserved while a client decides?
For verified trade members with active engagements, we can place a 7-day hold on a piece with a 25% refundable deposit. Beyond 7 days, the deposit becomes non-refundable. This is the only context in which we hold one-of-one pieces.
Boston Atelier & Private Viewing
Can I see a rug in person before buying?
Yes. Our Boston atelier is open by appointment for in-person viewing. Bring a paint chip, a textile swatch, a furniture photograph — anything that anchors your space — and we'll prepare a curated selection of 3–5 rugs the day before your visit. Book at /pages/luxury-rugs-boston or call +1 857 313 9458.
Where is the atelier located?
We operate a quiet, by-appointment-only atelier in Greater Boston. The exact address is shared at the time of appointment confirmation to ensure privacy for clients. We typically serve buyers from Beacon Hill, Back Bay, Cambridge, Brookline, Wellesley, Weston, and Greater Boston, plus designers from across New England.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Anything that grounds the decision in your actual space: paint chips or wall color samples; fabric swatches from furniture, drapery, or pillows; photographs of the room (wide shots and detail shots); floor plan with rug dimensions marked; and notes on light direction and time of day you spend most in the room. The more we know, the better the curation.
Can you bring rugs to my home?
Yes, for Greater Boston clients with serious purchase intent, we offer in-home consultation — we bring 2–4 curated rugs to your home for in-context viewing. This is offered on a case-by-case basis and typically reserved for $5,000+ purchases.
Provenance & Origin
Where are your rugs made?
Our rugs are hand-knotted by master weavers in five regions of northern Afghanistan: Aqcha (Mamluk tradition), Mazar-i-Sharif (Oushak and finer pieces), Andkhoy (Khal-Mohammadi tribal), Balkh (silk-touch wool), and Kunduz (Persian-influenced). We also carry select Turkish Oushak reproductions and antique Persian pieces with documented provenance.
How do you verify provenance?
For contemporary pieces, we work directly with the artisan cooperatives — every rug arrives at our Boston atelier with documentation: weaving region, cooperative or village, weaver group, materials, dye source, knot count, and weaving timeframe. For antique pieces (pre-1925), provenance documentation comes from auction records, dealer chains, and physical examination by our textile specialist.
Are your artisans fairly paid?
Yes. We work exclusively with cooperatives that pay weavers above the regional fair wage and provide stable, year-round commissions rather than piecework. A portion of every rug sale supports the cooperative's social infrastructure — typically health care access and children's education. See our Behind the Loom page for the full sourcing story.
Why does the country of origin matter?
Each weaving region carries a distinct design DNA developed over centuries. Northern Afghan weavers inherited the Mamluk tradition through migration; their pieces carry the geometric kufic borders and gul motifs of 15th-century Cairo. Anatolian Turkish weavers carry the Oushak tradition. Persian weavers carry the medallion-and-vine tradition of Tabriz and Kashan. Provenance is design lineage made visible.
About Raihan Rugs
Who is Raihan?
Raihan Rugs is a Boston-based atelier curating hand-knotted heirloom rugs sourced directly from master weavers in northern Afghanistan and Turkey. We do not run a showroom; we work by appointment. Every rug is reviewed in our atelier for structure, color, and weave integrity before it is listed publicly.
Why Boston?
Boston is one of the densest concentrations of architecturally significant residential interiors in the United States — Beacon Hill brownstones, Back Bay flats, Cambridge triple-deckers, Wellesley colonials, Cape Cod summer homes. The interior design and architecture community here values craft and provenance over disposable design. We built the atelier where the buyers are.
How can I contact you?
Email: Raihanrugs@gmail.com
Phone or text: +1 857 313 9458
Atelier: Boston, MA — by appointment
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