The History of the Bosnian ćilimi
The loom is believed to have existed since the dawn of human civilization and weaving techniques have evolved over the many years since then around the world. The technique of making Bosnian carpets, called ćilimi or kilims, dates back to the Middle Ages, making appearances with simple design through the rule of the Ottoman empire. Under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian empire in the 19th century, designs and weaving techniques became more complex and the first books and factories dedicated to making ćilimi were created. Production flourished during the period before World War I and has been in decline since.
BOSFAM believes the preservation of the ćiilim is essential for Bosnian culture. The unique motifs and bright colors can be seen around the country and the women of BOSFAM seek to preserve the tradition of producing high quality carpets in the Bosnian style.
BOSFAM's carpets are of the highest quality and are woven using a traditional wooden loom. The longitudinal threads wrapped around the loom, called the warp, are made of cotton and the rest of the material used for weaving is 100% wool. The dyes are colorfast and the carpets look the same from both sides.
Care and Cleaning of Our Carpets
Our carpets are high-quality and durable. Although the designs may be intricate, they are made to be walked on! So don’t be afraid to show off your new cilim in your home and here are a few tips for care and cleaning:
-Vacuum your carpet periodically to remove dust and debris. Don’t vacuum too frequently though; it can create strain on the knots.
-If your carpet needs to be washed, vacuum first then lather in a soft, natural soap or baby shampoo by hand. Rinse with cold water only and leave it to dry in the shade. Don’t lay your carpet back down on the floor until it is completely dried.
-To remove stains, wet the area and rub gently with the direction of the knots. Never use any chemicals to remove stains.
-If your carpets colors are looking dull, a small capful of vinegar during the final rinse after washing can bring back the wool’s shine.
-Avoid placing the carpet somewhere where it will be in intense sunlight for long periods of time as this can fade the colors over time.
If you have questions, feel free to contact us for advice. Proper care of your carpet will ensure it lasts for years to come!