Flokati Rugs
Flokati rugs are Greek hand-woven area rugs made from 100-percent wool that
are almost always a natural, off-white color. They have been produced for
centuries and were a staple of early Greek shepherds. The rugs originally
serviced the shepherds, being used as clothing, beds for tents, keeping them
warm during the long winter months. The 5th century Vlachs, who lived in
Samarina, the highest Village on the Pindos mountains, were the inventors of the
Flokati Rug.
Flokati rugs had very humble beginnings. As shepherds, they raised sheep and goats, producing dairy products sold during
the winter in the plains of Trikala, Thesally, Macedonia, and as far as Odessa.
The women, having access to the wool, would weave Flokati rugs to be sold at
bazaars during the winter months. We have continued the tradition of producing
fine quality Flokati and other hand-woven rugs.
In the 1970s these sheep's wool rugs were very popular, and in recent years
they have reemerged in contemporary design. Flokatis are very shaggy, with a
pile 3 or 4 inches long. They are cozy and have a great texture. They are
relatively inexpensive and not too big, which make them easy to take with you to
your next home. They are great in a bedroom or a living room or really any room
that is not formal in the traditional sense. They are best used as throw rugs
over a wood floor or over a flat floor covering such as sisal. Flokatis suit any
look from contemporary to Mediterranean.
Today, Flokati rugs portrays sexiness, sensuousness
and eternity. Yes, from humble beginnings to today, these
rugs still enjoy a niche in the area rug industry. Their unique look and feel
make them a natural choice for that special place in the home where warmth and
originality are needed.