Around the World in 80 Rugs: Greek Rugs

In the heart of Greece’s vibrant cultural history lies the ancient art of rug weaving. Greek rugs, encompassing both the traditional flat weave designs and the distinctively plush Flokati rugs, stand as symbols of a rich heritage deeply embedded in the everyday life and customs of the Greek people. 

In this Around the World in 80 Rugs, we’ll look at how these Greek rug types have gone beyond mere functionality to become emblematic of Greek aesthetic sensibilities. Join us in our guide and see luxurious and exquisite examples from our collections at the same time.

The Legacy of Greek Rugs

The tradition of rug weaving in Greece is a rich narrative that intertwines with the country’s history and cultural evolution. This legacy, spanning several centuries, is a story of skill, art, and adaptation, deeply ingrained in the Greek way of life.

Traditional Weaving Techniques and Materials

Traditional Greek rug weaving is a meticulous craft, heavily reliant on the skills passed down through generations. The technique typically involved hand-weaving, a labour-intensive process requiring patience and precision. The materials used were primarily wool, obtained from the sheep reared in the local pastoral communities. This wool was prized for its durability, warmth, and versatility.

The colours traditionally used in Greek rugs were derived from natural sources. Plants, roots, and even insects were used to create dyes, resulting in a palette that was not only vibrant but also deeply connected to the natural landscape. The designs often featured geometric patterns, with each region having its distinct style influenced by local customs and traditions.

The Origins of Flokati Rugs

Flokati rugs, a beloved and distinctive category of Greek rugs, have their origins in the Pindus Mountains. They were traditionally made by the Vlachs, a nomadic shepherd community. The process of making a Flokati rug began with shearing high-quality wool from local sheep. The wool was then washed in mountain rivers, giving Flokati rugs their characteristic fluffy texture.

Traditionally, Flokati rugs played a versatile role in Greek homes, serving as bed covers, wall hangings, or floor rugs. Made from 100% wool, their thick, warm pile was ideal for insulation against the cold mountain climate. 

The Art of Crafting: Flatweave or Flokati

Traditional Methods

Material Selection: Wool is the quintessential material in traditional Greek rug making. Sourced from local sheep, this wool is renowned for its durability, warmth, and natural texture. For Flokati rugs, the wool is left in its natural state, often uncoloured, to highlight its organic beauty.

Dyeing Techniques: The colours used in Greek rugs were obtained from natural dyes. This practice not only provided a unique colour palette but also ensured that the rugs were sustainable.

Hand-Weaving Artistry: The hallmark of traditional Greek and Flokati rug making is hand-weaving. This involves interlacing the woollen yarns on a loom. Flokati rug-making includes additional steps – the rug is taken to mountain rivers for washing, which fluffs up the wool and gives it its characteristic shaggy appearance.

Modern Adaptations in Techniques

Contemporary Materials: Modern Greek rugs may incorporate a blend of traditional wool with contemporary materials like synthetic fibres for added durability and ease of care.

Advanced Dyeing Processes: While natural dyes are still in use, especially in artisanal rug making, modern rugs often use synthetic dyes to offer a wider range of colours and patterns, catering to contemporary aesthetic preferences.

Mechanisation: To meet the demands of the global market, some aspects of rug production have become mechanised. However, many artisans continue to hand-weave rugs, especially Flokati rugs, to preserve their authentic texture and quality.

Patterns and Colours

Patterns in Greek Rugs

Traditional Greek rugs are known for their geometric patterns, including meanders, spirals, and motifs inspired by nature and Greek mythology. These patterns are often symmetrical and meticulously planned, creating a sense of balance and harmony.

Designs can vary greatly depending on the region, with some areas favouring more elaborate floral motifs, while others stick to simpler, more abstract geometric shapes. 

Colours: A Spectrum of Nature and Culture

The colour palette in traditional Greek rugs typically draws from natural dyes, resulting in deep, rich colours like indigo, terracotta, ochre, and olive green. These colours are deeply connected to the landscape, mirroring the blues of the Aegean Sea, the reds of the earth, and the greens of the olive groves.

In modern interpretations, while many rugs still use these traditional colours, there’s also an exploration of more contemporary palettes, including pastels and muted tones, to fit modern interior design trends.

Greek Rugs in Modern Interiors

In contemporary settings, these rugs can add a touch of rustic charm or sophisticated elegance, depending on their style. A classic Greek rug with geometric patterns can complement a modern minimalist decor, adding a splash of culture and history, while a plush Flokati rug is perfect for adding warmth and texture to a Scandinavian or Bohemian-style interior.

The versatility of these rugs means they can adapt to various interior settings, from formal living rooms to casual family spaces, and even in modern, eclectic office environments.

Our Sophisticated Greek-Style Rugs

We’re glad to offer you a great selection of flat weave and fluffy rugs that perfectly mirror both Greek styles:

The Greek Key Flatweave Blue rug:

The Extravagance Ivory rug:

The Harper Outdoor Greek Key Silver rug:

The SheepSkins Hug Natural rug:

The Washable 9mm Gel-Back Greek Key Navy rug: 

The Shimmer Champagne rug:

The Greek Key Flatweave Red rug:

The Montana Ivory rug:

Bring Greek Tradition into Your Home

We celebrate the legacy of Greek and Flokati rugs by offering a wide range of options that honour their traditional roots while embracing modern design sensibilities. Whether you are drawn to the classic elegance of Greek patterns or the cosy allure of a Flokati rug, our collection caters to diverse tastes and interior styles. 

Whether accentuating your living room, bedroom, or study, these rugs promise to transform your space, infusing it with warmth, culture, and a hint of Greek mystique. Find your perfect Greek-style rug here.