Kilim Afghan carpets are handwoven by Turkmens in northern Afghanistan. A traditional weaving technique is used to create the typical step-like pattern characterized by a small gap between each block of colour. To achieve this, the weaver returns the weft around the last warp of a specific colour area and then returns the weft of the adjacent colour around the adjacent warp.
The cavity formed between the two gaps should be visible, but still remain small. These carpets are remarkably durable and in order to ensure that the structure of the kelim remains strong, the weaver needs to make sure the weft is tightly packed and that it completely covers the warp.
The ancient weaving technique used allows the weaver greater room for creativity and as a result kilims in both natural and vibrant colour schemes featuring bold geometrical shapes are produced. They are perfect additions to both the modern and traditional home and due to their versatility they can be found to decorate floors, walls, bedspreads and furniture much in the same way as the nomads originally used them as floor coverings, bags or curtains for tents.
Besides their versatility, kilims are reversible and feature the same pattern on both sides which means they can easily be turned over and used if they are dirtied or stained.