Handknotted Beni Ourain Rug vs a Fake Copy

A Beni Ourain rug is the perfect accent that completes its surrounding, one that transports your home into the colorful world of Morocco. Add it to your home, to a seating group, or to the floor, and see as the rich hues and bold patterns of the weave are the center point of a Beni Ourain rug. 

Made in the traditional Moroccan style, the Beni Ourain area rug is sure to be a visual highlight in any room as it brings an exotic element with its visually striking craftsmanship. 

Unfortunately, its popularity also means that finding an authentic Beni Ourain rug can be tricky as there are fake copies in the mix. So if you're interested in adding a Beni Ourain rug to your home, here are some tips to buying a genuine one.

Beni Ourain Rugs: Original vs Fake

Factor #1: Material 

Genuine Beni Ourain rugs are made out of quality sheep wool, which is either hand-woven or hand-knotted in the way traditional, Morrocan women would do it centuries ago. On the other hand, fake copies are often made with polyester, viscose, and other synthetic materials, and some rugs are also made with a combination of wool, polyester, and viscose. 

Factor #2: Rug Fringes

A Beni Ourain rug's fringe has two variations. Originally, the rugs would only have rugged fringes on the sides to accentuate their beauty, but clients all over the world fell in love with the free-flowing, golden look of the rug's fringes. 

With that in mind, modern Beni Ourain also comes in a design with both sides of the rug, but it is more traditional to choose the one with only one fringe on its side. 

Factor #3: Knots

The knots of the Beni Ourain area rug is important as they are the foundation of the rug's integrity. The most traditional rugs will have knots that are very close to one another, but not overlapping each other. 

Upon closer look, you should notice that the knots should be weaved unevenly as it's a sign that the rug is made by professional hands. On the other hand, the fake versions have a more uniform look, which means that it's probably produced by a machine. 

Factor #4: Company

The art of weaving Beni Ourain rugs is a very hard skill to learn, and only a few people, who are naturally gifted in weaving the thick, rough wool, can handle the challenging project. Thus, the best place to buy Beni Ourain rugs is from the Moroccan artisans who weave them, and not from a factory.

The Bottom Line: Distinguishing the Authentic Beauty of a Beni Ourain Rug 

A Beni Ourain area rug is the perfect addition to your home as it will help you bring a part of the Moroccan culture into your living space. While they are popular, ornate, and beautiful, what's even more remarkable is the fact that they are hand-woven by real artists, so it's worth taking the time to identify the real rugs from the fake copies when shopping in the market. 

Why Shop for Authentic Moroccan Rugs at Atlas Weavers?

Are you looking for the highest quality rugs for your home? Atlas Weavers offer various designs and sizes of beautiful and bonafide Moroccan, Azilal, Boucherouite, and Ben Ourain rugs in our online shop. Our team is committed to delivering wonderful, long-lasting textiles while upholding traditions. Check out our selection of rugs today!

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