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How to Choose Authentic Turkish Carpets and Kilims Without Getting Scammed

Shopping for a Turkish carpet or kilim can be one of the most exciting parts of visiting Turkey — but it can also be confusing for first-time buyers. With so many shops, materials, prices, and sellers claiming their rugs are "handmade" or "antique," how can you tell what’s real and what’s not? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to identifying genuine Turkish carpets and kilims and help you avoid common scams.

Know the Difference: Handmade vs. Machine-Made Carpets

The first thing to look for is whether the rug is handmade. This has a major impact on the value and authenticity of the piece.

• Check the Back: Turn the rug over. Handmade rugs have irregular knots and the pattern is clearly visible on the reverse side. Machine-made rugs often have uniform stitching and a mesh-like backing.

• Feel the Texture: Handmade carpets feel rich and textured, while machine-made ones can feel too smooth or synthetic.

• Ask About Materials: Traditional Turkish rugs are made of wool, cotton, or silk — not synthetic fibers like polyester. Always ask what the rug is made of and request verification.

Understand Pricing: If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is

Beware of shops offering “antique silk rugs” for extremely low prices. These are likely machine-made imitations or chemically treated to look aged.

• Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t buy from the first shop you walk into. Visit at least 2–3 stores to compare prices, styles, and service.

• Ask for a Certificate: A reputable seller should provide a certificate of authenticity, especially for silk or antique rugs.

• Research Regional Styles: Learning about different regions — like Hereke, Konya, or Kayseri — can help you understand why one rug might be more valuable than another.

Avoid High-Pressure Sales Tactics and Tourist Traps

Scammy shops often use aggressive sales techniques, rush you into making a purchase, or claim their offer is “only valid today.”

• Take Your Time: A real handmade rug is a long-term purchase. You should never feel pressured to buy immediately.

• Don’t Fall for Free Tea Tricks: While Turkish hospitality is genuine in most places, some sellers use free tea or gifts to guilt tourists into buying. Stay polite but firm.

• Check Reviews: Before visiting a shop, look it up online. Google, TripAdvisor, and travel blogs often reveal whether it’s trustworthy.

Choose a Trusted Carpet Dealer in Istanbul

Finding a trustworthy shop is the most important step. That’s why thousands of travelers visit Tokgün Carpet, located in the heart of Sultanahmet — just steps from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

We are proud to offer:

• 100% handmade carpets and kilims

• Fair, transparent pricing

• English-speaking staff with deep knowledge of Turkish weaving traditions

• International shipping and certificate of authenticity

• A relaxed, educational shopping experience — no pressure, no tricks

At Tokgün Carpet, we don’t just sell rugs — we share stories, culture, and craftsmanship. You’re not just buying a carpet. You’re becoming part of a tradition that has been woven for centuries.