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Written by Gillian
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One of the joys of travelling to a different country or continent is that you get to pick up some wonderful souvenirs to take home with you. The opportunity to buy something at its source, or to get a bargain compared with prices back home, makes that purchase all the sweeter.
Carpets are the main attraction, and one of the best buys in Tunisia. Handmade with fine threads and painstaking patience, it takes months of hard work to stitch a carpet in a traditional pattern. Symbols, triangles, arches and geometric shapes are generally believed to ward off the evil eye or ensure fertility. Only the best silks and natural wool should be used.
When you visit a carpet stall or shop you will be overwhelmed with attention. You may be offered the customary hospitality of mint tea or bottled water, which should be graciously accepted. Then the sales patter will begin. Relax and enjoy the experience. There is plenty to learn from what you are told.
One thing you should do, to look knowledgeable and experienced, is to look at the label fixed to the back of the rug. The carpet should be marked with a knot count. Silk should have over 250,000 knots per square meter. Keep that number in mind. This accounts for much of the price of the carpet or rug. It will take many months for a quality carpet to be hand-made in the traditional manner. Run your hand over the pile and check there are no holes. It should be too dense to part at all. Check the back of the rug and look for the evenness of the knots.
Take your time over the transaction and do not be pressured into the purchase. If in doubt at all, make your excuses and leave. Visiting several carpet sellers is your prerogative before making a choice. When you finally make your selection, give yourself a pat on the back. Your carpet purchase should be an heirloom that will give years of pleasure and will probably outlive you! |
