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The fringes are the visible ends of the warp threads that extend beyond the rug’s edges. They are often knotted or braided to prevent the rug from unraveling. Fringes are not merely decorative but serve a crucial role in maintaining the rug’s structural integrity. The style and length of the fringe can vary depending on the region and the specific rug style.

The cording, or sides of the rug, is the finished edge that runs along the length of the rug, preventing it from fraying. The cording is created by wrapping the weft threads around the outermost warp threads, and it is often reinforced with additional stitching or binding. This part of the rug is crucial for its durability, as it protects the edges from wear and tear.

The pile is the visible surface of the rug, made up of the cut ends of the knotted yarns. The pile can be made from wool, silk, or a combination of both, and its height varies depending on the rug’s intended use and design. A high pile gives the rug a plush, luxurious feel, while a low pile creates a more durable and flat surface. The colors and patterns of the pile are carefully chosen and meticulously planned, reflecting the artistic traditions of the region where the rug was made.

The warp forms the foundational structure of the rug. These are vertical threads that run through the entire length of the rug, and they are typically made from cotton, wool, or silk. The warp threads are stretched tightly on a loom, providing the skeleton on which the rug’s pile is woven. The ends of the warp threads extend beyond the rug and are often tied into fringes, which are both decorative and functional.

The weft threads run horizontally across the width of the rug and are woven between the warp threads. After each row of knots is tied, one or more weft threads are passed through to secure the knots in place. Weft threads are usually made from cotton or wool and help stabilize the structure of the rug, adding strength and flexibility. The density of the weft threads also affects the thickness and durability of the rug.

The knots are the most critical element of a Persian rug, as they form the pile, or surface, of the rug. They can be visible on the rug’s reverse side. Each knot is tied around two adjacent warp threads and then cut, creating a tuft. The density and type of knots used determine the rug’s quality and intricacy of design.

The knot count per square inch (KPSI) is an important indicator of a rug’s quality, with higher KPSI rugs being more valuable due to their intricate detail.

The borders frame the central field of the rug and typically consist of several bands, including a wide main border flanked by narrower guard borders. The designs in the borders often echo the motifs found in the field and medallion, helping to create a cohesive and balanced design.

In rugs with medallions, the corners of the field are often filled with decorative motifs called spandrels or corner brackets. These are typically triangular or fan-shaped and mirror the designs found in the medallion or borders.

The field refers to the area surrounding the medallion and can be filled with repeating patterns, motifs, or empty space, depending on the design.

In many Persian rugs, the central design feature is the medallion, a large, often intricate, geometric or floral pattern located in the center of the rug.