MondArt - Persian & Oriental Rug Warehouse

Dealing with Stains on your Persian or Oriental Rug

May 8th, 2010

Even with the utmost care practiced around your Persian or Oriental rugs, spills can happen. After all, carpets are underfoot, and just about everything eventually lands on them.

When a spill occurs, the most important thing to remember is to act quickly. When something falls on a rug, the surface is first affected, then any liquids can be absorbed by the fibres. This absorption of liquids, coupled with the time to allow it to set, is what makes stains so difficult to remove. (Immediate action can even prevent a timely and pricey trip to a professional carpet cleaner.)

Here’s what you should do when an accident occurs:

1. Blot the affected area with a clean and absorbent cloth (Shammy cloths are good).
2. Sponge the area with a gentle solution, preferably a diluted detergent that has been recommended by the rug manufacturer or dealer. For some stains, namely alcohol, detergent is not necessary. Don’t scrub, since it can wear away the fibres.
3. Remove the detergent by blotting with a clean sponge/cloth soaked in clean warm water.
4. Blot again, this time with a dry absorbent cloth to remove the water. End this step by brushing the pile in the most natural direction.
5. Lay seven sheets of absorbent paper towel on top of the cleaned area and place a heavy book on top. Leave for some time (about an hour or so for a light stain and more if the area was heavily soaked). This helps to absorb the water that may be trapped deeper within the pile.

If the stain has not disappeared following these steps, you can repeat the process or contact a professional carpet cleaner to deal with the problem. Although the rugs at Mond’art can be treated with a product that helps to repel liquids, making it easier to clean up stains, spills should still be dealt with in a timely fashion – just in case.

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Nature, Garden Carpets and Persian Rug Designs

May 1st, 2010

A recent exhibition held in the rug weaving centre of Isfahan showcased traditional Persian gardens across Iran, including those located at Chahar Bagh, Farahabad, Yazd, and Tabriz. The history of Persian gardens is believed to date back well before common era. Evidence of this appears at Chahar Bagh, where one may still see the remains of the illustrious garden of Cyrus the Great (circa 500BCE), the founder of the Achaemenid (Persian) Empire.

Gardens across Persian were (and still are) a place of solace, and featured a multitude of plants that were not only aesthetically pleasing, but more importantly, provided sustenance and were beneficial for health. They flourished in a society that appreciated nature and the gifts it provided.

Garden Carpet
Rugweavers drew upon these flourishing gardens for inspiration. The “Garden Carpet” is a specific type of traditional Persian floorcovering. Its design is the image of a Persian garden, usually gloriously in full bloom. Trees, flowers, streams and other features of a garden can be seen, sections created by vertical paths on which figures may be traversing. In the centre of the design may be a structure, perhaps a water body visited by animals.

Today, Garden Carpets may be categorized as “Pictorial Carpets” since their design captures an image.

Appreciation for nature has also been expressed in traditional Persian rugs and carpets that may not be considered as Garden Carpets. In fact, almost all designs, regardless of origin, feature some form of flower or plant, whether it be the complete form or just a portion of it. Designs may feature a single tree of life, clusters of flowerheads, or a border composed of vines – whatever it may be, the usage of flowers and plants express a profound affinity with nature.

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Tribal Rug Designs From Memory

April 28th, 2010

Is it true that the design of a tribal rug is woven from memory?

If the tribal rug has been handwoven following traditional weaving techniques, then the answer to this question is a definite yes. The beautiful geometric designs that tribal rugs boast are created from the memory of the weaver. A design or pattern is constructed according to what the weaver imagines in their head, with nothing pre-drawn on paper to follow. This is quite an extraordinary feat, considering that one rug is comprised of hundreds of thousands of knots, each requiring specific placement to create a unique design that varies in complexity. As a result, a handwoven traditional tribal rug is truly one-of-a-kind. Even if a design is passed down through the generations, there may still be variations in the final product created. Unfortunately, such rugs are hard to come by these days, since the concept of the “tribe” is slowly diminishing. Tribal groups who have woven rugs for many generations, such as the Hamedan and Zanjan, are losing their traditionally nomadic lifestyle and becoming more sedentary. This change has altered the techniques of tribal weavers.

Traditional Persian and Oriental pile rugs are handwoven by craftsmen who generally follow a photograph or picture as they weave. This picture, called a cartoon, is a drawn on a graph where a knot on the foundation is represented by a square on the graph. Rarely are they constructed purely from memory, which may explain why designs of these rugs can be far more elaborate and intricate than those that are classified as tribal.

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Nepalese Carpet Village

April 22nd, 2010

A high level task force in Nepal wants to establish a “Carpet Village”, believed to be one of the only ways to revive the country’s flailing carpet/rug industry. Carpet Village is planned to be a centre of production, research and education devoted to carpets/rugs located near or in the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), an area that has been designated by the government to cater to industry and commerce.

Rug production was once a thriving industry, with over 900 manufacturers fulfilling international demand. Rugs were one of the top exports of Nepal. However, labour disputes, lack of skilled employees and a high cost of production have seriously affected the industry. Most materials are imported from as far away as New Zealand, the government has been wholly apathetic up to this time, and education in the craft is lacking. Nepalese carpets have been unable to compete with the prices and craftsmanship of those from other countries. As a result, production has steadily decreased and only about 200 manufacturers are left.

The task force hopes that Carpet Village will breathe new life into the rugmaking industry. People will be able to learn everything related to rug production at a carpet training centre, research facilities will be erected to explore the possibilities of developing materials within the country so they won’t have to be imported (the task force also suggested the government subsidize sheep farming so that wool would not have to be imported), and techniques will be improved to advance the craft.

Carpet Village is currently waiting for approval from the government.

Although Nepal may not have the same reputation as before, this is not to say that Nepalese rugs should be disregarded. Absolutely not! The Modern Nepalese rugs we have at our Toronto Rug Gallery have been handknotted by talented rugweavers who are certainly as talented as their peers in other countries. And if you don’t believe it, just drop by our Rug Gallery and see for yourself.

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How to Vacuum a Persian and Oriental Rug: Information from your Toronto Persian Rug Dealer

April 17th, 2010

Vacuuming is essential if you’d like to keep your Toronto Persian rug clean and prolong its longevity.Vacuuming removes the dirt and debris that becomes ingrained in the rug from daily use, which can damage fibres by acting as tiny knives. Dirt can also become so impacted that it alters the colour, making a rug appear dull and lifeless. As a result, it’s best to vacuum at least once or twice a week, depending on how frequently you walk on the rug.

When vacuuming a Persian rug, make sure you use the right attachment. There are two options: one is known as the beater-bar and the other is the rug attachment. The beater-bar has a rotating brush in the end to help “beat” loose dirt that has settled at the bottom of a rug, caught in the pile. This freed dirt is then suctioned away. The beater-bar is best for machine made floor coverings with a shorter pile, such as wall-to-wall carpeting. The rug attachment is about the same size but has no brush. On more delicate carpets or ones with a high pile, the rug attachment is preferred.

Caution should always be taken when cleaning the fringe of a traditional Persian rug. It’s best to use no attachment and lower the suctioning power.

Some Persian and Oriental rug dealers recommend that you should not vacuum a rug and instead shake or beat it. Although this may be true for some types, in most cases you can safely use a vacuum as long as it has the right attachment and exercise care when cleaning. If you’re not sure, simply ask the the dealer and they’ll let you know the proper care instructions for the rug you’ve purchased.

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Runners: Staircase Carpets and Rugs from Your Toronto Rug Warehouse

April 9th, 2010

A runner is a rug or carpet designed specifically for a staircase. Longer and narrower than an area rug, runners cover each step and riser of a staircase, spanning the entire width of the stairs or leaving a small portion bare on either side. They extend from the base of the first step starting from the bottom of the riser, to the very top stair. Runners generally measure 66cm to 71cm in width. Because staircases vary in height, most reputable Rug Dealers in Toronto that sell staircase carpeting will cut the runner according to your preferences.

Staircase carpeting is comprised of 4 parts, one of which is optional but recommended: a runner, edging to ensure it doesn’t unravel after being cut to size, padding to place underneath, and finally, a carpet rod at the base of every riser to secure all the padding and runner in place. This rod is optional, but is recommended as it provides extra support and security.

There area  variety of reasons why stairway rugs should be installed on all of the staircases in your home, whether leading up to the second floor or down into the basement:

They protect the stairs. A staircase is the only way to get to another floor, so it’s obviously going to be used quite frequently on a daily basis. Despite the resilience of wood (which most staircases are made of) the steps will suffer from wear and tear. A runner serves as a protective layer, covering the wood of each step so it won’t wear down and get damaged as quickly or easily as when it’s bare.

They make the stairs safer. Wooden stairs (or any type of material constructing stairs, as a matter of fact), can be slippery, and the smoother they are, the more slippery. A runner provides a surface with more traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

They reduce noise. Climbing up the stairs can produce a lot of sound with each step taken. This thumping sound can be loud and penetrating, however a runner helps to muffle the noise.

They add extra warmth. We’re not talking temperature-wise (although, technically, it does that, too). We’re talking about the appearance. A bare staircase can look cold and uninviting, but add some staircase carpeting, and it instantly transforms the stairs into something more welcoming and comfortable – exactly what a home should be.

They help complete the look of a space. The staircase is often a negelected part of a home. However, with the right design and style, a runner can make the staircase an active part of the overall look of your home, completing it.

For more information about staircase carpeting, including installation and fixtures, please call Mond’art Persian and Oriental Rug Warehouse at 1-877-RUGS-24-7.

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5 Reasons Why You Need a Rug

April 2nd, 2010

Are you wondering if your barren floor needs a rug? Well, you’re asking the wrong people because as the largest Persian and Oriental Rug Gallery in Eastern Canada, we think every home needs a rug or carpet. Here’s why:

1. Comfort. Walk on a naked floor than tread upon one that’s covered with a rug or carpet, and you’ll understand. The cushioning and warmth offered by a rug creates a far more pleasant surface to walk on. It’s instant luxury – a feature that we believe everyone should be lavished upon with.

2. For the complete look. Rugs are often neglected features of an interior space. Everyone pays attention to furniture, window coverings, and the walls, but rarely do they look down – or so you think. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When you enter a room, one of the most important features your eyes pick up on is the floor, since you are almost always in contact with it. You do notice what’s laying underfoot, and the style and design of what’s on the floor contributes to the overall impression the room conveys. For example, can you imagine a classically inspired room with heavy oak furniture, posh drapes and elaborate fixtures without a complimentary fine handmade Persian rug boasting an intricate floral motif? It simply would not look complete. Rooms without rugs tend to look more barren (but if that’s the “style” you’d like to achieve, maybe a rug isn’t for you after all).

3. Creates boundaries. Walls aren’t the only way to create boundaries within a space. Rugs can easily mark areas, distinguishing their boundaries without the need for inhibiting walls. For example, interiors with no walls separating the living and dining areas can use area rugs to designate the living area from the rest of the space.

4. Family heirlooms. Finer handmade Persian and Oriental rugs can be quite expensive, but there’s a reason for this: the labour intensive craftsmanship and high quality materials used. And because of these reasons, such rugs can last for generations, becoming precious heirlooms that can cost far more than what you paid originally. Take a look at antique rugs, and you’ll understand the value fine rugs possess.

5. Noise reduction. Place a rug on the floor and you’ll notice that the harsh sounds of daily life bouncing off the naked floor and walls will be dramatically reduced. Rugs absorb sounds, especially those emanating from the heavy-footed. (Okay, if you live in an apartment the people beneath you will probably appreciate it more, but you get the picture.)

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Toronto Persian and Oriental Rugs: Care & Fair Certified Against Illegal Child Labour

March 26th, 2010

At Mondart, your Toronto Persian and Oriental Rug Gallery, we believe in social responsibility. That’s why we sell rugs that have been certified by the CARE & FAIR organization.

Founded in 1994, the CARE & FAIR organization is comprised of carpet importers committed to fighting against child labour in all of the countries that manufacture carpets and rugs. They also aim to improve the working and living standards of knotters in India, Pakistan and Nepal.

Members take an active role in the communities of employment, striving to better living conditions  for both the workers and their children.  Funds are acquired through participants in these three countries, who donate just 1% of the value of their imports. These funds are then invested to support educational and training programs (for children and adults) as well improve medical care.

It is important to note that CARE & FAIR is against illegal child labour, particularly where it is forced and takes place in substandard conditions. They seek to provide education and an environment that nurtures self-determination, so that children aren’t exploited and can make the choice to work or not.

Mondart supports CARE & FAIR, hoping that others will do the same to send this clear message to manufacturers: rugs, and other products originating from more impoverished countries, should be produced socially responsibly. As a buyer, we can change the world by making the right choice. Look for the CARE & FAIR label on our modern Persian and Oriental rugs.

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Persian Rug Delivery in the GTA

March 22nd, 2010


We’re thinking about purchasing a large Persian Rug but our car isn’t big enough to carry it home. Do you deliver?

Persian rugs range in size, from small single person prayer rugs (as well as novelty rugs that may be used as a unique mouse pad for your computer) to huge oversize area rugs as large as 13.6′ x 19.7′ and over. Needless to say, these larger rugs can be quite a problem to bring home.

If you need help bringing a larger Persian Rug home, please let us know at the time of purchase. We would be more than happy to help you get your rug home, safe and sound, by arranging for your purchase to be delivered to any address in the Greater Toronto Area (we may provide this service for free or at an additional cost. We’ll let you know at the time so you won’t be surprised by any hidden costs).  Delivery can be scheduled at a convenient time for you.

Outside of the GTA? We can ship your Persian Rug to your home or office by courier. Additional fees may be applied, however we may be able to waive them on some rugs.

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Time to Change Your Rug!

March 15th, 2010

We haven’t changed the way our living room looks since we moved in – which was back in the 80s. Needless to say, every time we enter the room, it’s like we’re stepping into a time warp. Any suggestions?

Few people change the interiors of their home over the course of a lifetime. Most people will move in and simply keep everything the same, adding one or two things along the way. However for some, the same tired old environment can feel stagnant and oppressive – especially when fashions have changed so dramatically over the years.

Bored with the look of your home? A little paint and a change of floor covering can transform any room instantly, giving it a fresh and new look. Even if you don’t bother painting and just add or change the rug, it can make a whole world of difference. Updating the look of your home can make it more enjoyable to live in, and create a more hospitable atmosphere for guests and visitors that you’ll feel less embarrassed about.

Don’t forget to bring a photo of the room you want to transform. Take a couple of shots from various angles so our experts can help you decide what type of rug would be suitable. There’s no need to invest in new furniture (unless you want to, of course!) Tell us the kind of “feel” for the room you’d like to have (modern, comfortable, elegant, chic, etc.) and we’ll help you choose the right  quality handmade area rug or carpet. You can also browse our online Persian Rug catalogue for ideas, but remember – what’s online is only a fraction of what we have at our rug gallery!

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