DIMENSIONS AND NOMENCLATURE

Handmade carpets that can be used as rugs, wall hangings and divan covers are manufactured in various sizes. Different names are given to carpets of different sizes. Although the names given according to size are the same for all regions, the carpets, because they are handmade, may show minor differences in dimension. While some regions manufacture carpets of all sizes, others manufacture carpets in standard sizes. Whatever the size is, a hand- made carpet adds beauty and elegance to the place where it is used. Two or three handmade carpets laid over wall-to-wall carpeting will add colour to the rooms

CARE OF A CARPET

Handmade carıpets are used either as rugs or wall hangings. To preserve their beauty and durability, constant care is necessary. In order to control the bleeding of the colours later, quality carpets are marketed after a special washing.

The pile attracts dust and dirt, therefore, regular cleaning is required to keep the carpets bright and attractive. Vacuum cleaners used in homes, are ideal for cleaning handmade carpets as they suck away the dust and dirt Carpets which have not been cleaned properly for many years should be sent to professional carpet cleaners

Handmade carpets should not be cleaned like machine made, wall-to- wall carpets. Moisture, grease and moths are the enemies of carpets. Wet carpets should be dried immediately in shade. From time to time, carpets may be wiped with a damp sponge or a white piece of cloth dipped iQ soapy water , in the same direction. Care must be taken not to get the underside of the carpet wet. A hairdryer may be used to dry damp carpets. Handmade carpets are a part of everyday life and naturally , they are used a lot. When not used for a certain period of time, they should be rolled with moth balls, wrapped in a piece of cloth and stored in a dry place. Worn-out fringes may be replaced in time. Carpets should be repaired by experts only .

CARPET WEAVING CENTRES

Technically, Turkish handmade carpets may be classified as Anatolian carpets. The carpets produced in towns and villages, and by the ''Yörük'' nomads, reflect their art tradition. However, the personal feelings and taste of the weaver may be reflected along with the traditional pattems. The sale of handmade carpets contributes a lot to the income of the family .Almost every region of Anatolia still produces great numbers of handmade carpets İn tradİtional ways, making up beautiful collections. The village folk weave carpets characteristic of the region on the looms in their homes. Besides such local centres, carpet weaving has become an industry in certain cities and towns

High quality handmade carpets are manufactured in homes, private workshops or in Institutions subsidised by the govemment, and they display a rich variety of colour , desİgn and size. The demand for handmade carpets can only be met by the production coming from these centres.

The carpet weaving centres and regions, as well as the different materials used in those centres are shown on the mao overleaf.