Shag Rugs & Flokati Rugs
Flokati, the shag rug that predates disco - by 1,500 years
They're not synonymous, but you could say that the flokati rug was the original shag rug. The flokati originated in 5th century Macedonia in or near the village of Samarina in the Pindos Mountains, which is now a part of Greece. Handmade Grecian rugs are still made today using the same weaving and soaking methods that give flokati rugs such a distinctive style and quality.
A Luxurious "Peasant's Blanket"
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Contrary to what some English speakers might think, the term flokati has no relation to flock, as in the sheep that provide the wool to make flokati area rugs. Flokati derives from the Greek word phlokat, which means "a peasant's blanket." Blanket indeed, these traditional shag rugs are thick and warm enough to make even the most shivery shepherd comfortable. What sets an authentic flokati area rug apart from a similar shag area rug is not just its use of wool, but how the wool is treated before completion. After weaving, the rug is placed in a whirlpool bath (or traditionally, a mountain waterfall) devoid of additives such as soap or chemicals and left to soak for about 40 hours. The point of soaking isn't to clean the wool, but to cause it to swell, thicken, and soften. This results not only in a more luxurious rug, but also one that's more resistant to dirt and wear. |
Another major difference between flokati rugs and standard shag area rugs is that flokatis are graded by concentration and weight. After soaking, the rug is hung out to dry and then weighed. Flokati shag rugs are graded by weight per square meter. The standard grades are 1,300, 2,000, 3,000, and 4,000 grams per square meter. The heaviest rugs are the fluffiest and most luxurious, with the greatest concentration of wool.
Tips for Buying & Maintenance
Though the first flokatis were made from white wool, contemporary flokati rugs are sometimes dyed and are available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Their beauty and durability makes them a popular choice for high-traffic living rooms and entertainment areas.
When buying a flokati rug, check if both the pile and backing are made from 100% wool, and whether the rug was hand-made or machine-made. Shake your flokati rug regularly to eliminate dirt and lift the pile. You can also use a bristle hair brush or vacuum it with suction only.