Are you finally here—excited to wind through the nooks and narrow crannies that are the Medina, where you are restricted for the most part to traditional shopping? It’s only the moroccan rugs that your eyes might get struck with. And, you know what, you are in the right place: we are sure that we know your mind and would be able to direct you to buy something that will not only decorate your habitation but also would linger in your mind for a long time.
So, enjoy the guide on how to shop a Moroccan rug and discover the most fabulous and exciting shopping details that would make you feel proud of your choice.
Where to go for buying a Moroccan rug
Many local outlets are ready to receive you and sell their handmade goods as the main brand of the country. Some of the best of such are the following:
* Marrakesh —here you can look for a rug in Souk Semmarine and Souk El Attarine. Vibrant colors appeal to any eye and make you want to buy all of them.
* Fez Medina —an extremely rewarding place to buy a rug with lots of local sellers.
* Essaouira —a good alternative for those who prefer a less spectacular experience in the process of shopping.
* In Rabat, all sells are located in the vicinity of the Rue des Consuls—everything is for the good of the customer here. you would both buy something totally unique and support the local community of skilled artisans. Shopping there, you will make it clear that tradition is not the thing of the past and that they can make a living out of their home-business.
- Authenticity: These rugs are usually made by the artisan hands of locals – made by hand, the old-fashioned way.
- Supporting local communities: These small-item purchases go a long way to help rural communities, and the local women.
- Better prices: Sure, you can walk-in to one of those luxury stores and buy one with hot tea in air-conditioned comfort, but how much money would you be shelling out for just access?
- Unique collection: patterns, colors, and designs that are just too lovely to overlook. They’re fun to bargain, too, if you’ve got the stomach for it.
- An excellent Moroccan experience: when you find that nice new piece, it’s just the best point of interaction and cultural immersion.
When it comes to buying a Moroccan rug, it is vital to ensure you are buying a quality product, so let me give you some tips on how to find reputable sellers:
- Research before buying a Moroccan rug; ask for recommendations from your hostel or guesthouse, or even on some Moroccan forums.
- Location: look for rugs in places that are not too remote but won’t pass out as a tourist trap. Seek out traditional markets if you want a good deal.
- Better price – if the price seems too good, be suspect.
- Transparency – the seller should be direct about the rug’s origin, material, and craftsmanship.
To wrap up, I would say that a high-quality rug will cost a lot of money, regardless of its origin or age. There is hardly a possibility of finding the rug that is even worth $100. Do you want to know how much to pay for a high-quality Moroccan rug?
Moroccan rugs can go from a few hundred to several thousand. You should also know that bargaining in the markets is a common practice, so be ready to negotiate. In order to get a fair price, you need to:
* Do a bit of research and know the approximate amount that is demanded for rugs of this particular type.
* Stay polite and negotiate respectfully.
* Start the bargaining with a lower price and increase it when you feel like it is reasonable for you to pay this money; do not increase the price in the middle of the negotiations, though.
If you want to get a nicer price, use the following tricks:
* Research prices on similar items first.
* Set your own budget and stick to it.
* Start by being friendly and show that you care about the work of the artisan.
* Do not be afraid to walk away if the price is not right; in some cases, it can actually lead to a discount.
* In case you are negotiating for several items, ask for a discount if you buy all of them.
* Inspect the item carefully and look for any stains, ripped edges, and other defects. Use them as leverage to negotiate a better price.
It is also significant to say that it might be quite challenging to import a rug from Morocco given its large size and heavy weight. Here is a brief list of steps you need to undertake:
* Find shipping: look for companies that have experience in shipping delicate items like rugs.
* Pack it: roll the rug tightly, bag it into plastic, and cover it with a special protective cover.
* Choose the shipping method: air would be the quickest but not the cheapest option. Land and sea shipping are more affordable.
* Prepare the documents for the international shipping.
* Make sure to track your shipment.
Picking up the Rug
If you have bought your rug and wonder how you can bring it home with you, follow these tips:
* Roll the Rug Tightly: Use a strap or tie to secure the rug so that it does not unfold during the road home.
* Use Protection: To prevent damage during loading, the conveyance, and unloading, you can wrap the rug in soft materials, plastic, or bubble wrap.
* Use a Padded Carrier: For better protection, the rug can be put into a padded carrier or a duffel bag.
* Avoid Folding: When carrying your rug, ensure not to fold it.
Final Thoughts
When you buy a Moroccan rug, you do not only buy some home decoration – you invest in the art, culture, and work of a craftswoman. Therefore, be careful, follow these tips and you will get a great acquisition that will keep the warmth and beauty of your home. Remember to negotiate politely, buy from only respected sellers, and protect your purchase from any accidents that can happen on the road. I hope that your shopping is easy and pleasant and you will enjoy the rug you bought, looking at its beauty and history value.
